V 



A 



THE WATERING PLACES AND 
MINERAL SPRINGS 



GERMANY, AUSTRIA, AND 
SWITZERLAND; 



NOTES ON CLIMATIC RESORTS AND CONSUMPTION, SANITARIUMS, 
PEAT, MUD, AND SAND BATHS, WHEY AND GRAPE CURES, &c. 



A POPULAR MEDICAL GUIDE. 

y by 

EDWARD GUTMANN, M . D 



With Illustrations, Comparative Tables, and a Colored Map, explaining 
the Situation and Chemical Composition of the Spas. 

loSSJi 

lew *§oxh: - 

D. APPLETON AND COMPANY, 

i, 3, and 5 BOND STREET. 
l880. 



4S 



iv 



C=r 



b? 






COPYRIGHT BY 

D. APPLETON AND COMPANY. 



*£* The author would be much obliged for any corrections 
or suggestions, which can be sent to his residence, 120 East 
58th Street, New York City. 



PREFACE. 



From year to year the stream of English and 
Americans travelling to the Continent is increasing ; 
of these, quite a considerable number afflicted with 
the various ailments which overwhelm suffering 
humanity, visit the various watering places of Central 
Europe. Unacquainted with the continental mode of 
living, they feel themselves uncomfortable during the 
greater part of their sojourn. 

For such I intend to write a little book — not a 
learned discourse on the physiological effects or 
chemical compositions of the springs, but a popular 
MEDICAL GUIDE, for the purpose of making them 
familiar with the arrangements, manners, and customs 
of living, at the principal watering places of Central 
Europe. Of these I shall give a brief description, with 
notes on the shortest routes of access. I shall also 
enumerate some general rules for the use of mineral 
waters, whose chemical constituents and medical 

A 2 



IV PREFACE. 



application will be sufficiently explained to enable 
the reader to obtain a general knowledge of their 
efficacy. 

However, I beg leave to remark, that every 
patient who intends to visit a watering place should 
not do so without having consulted an experienced 
physician, in order to ascertain which spring he should 
resort to, as it often happens that patients arriving at 
a spring not suited for their particular case are sent 
away to another, often far-distant, watering place. 

Having for the last ten years frequented all the 
important watering places of Germany, Austria, and 
Switzerland, partly as a patient, partly for the purpose 
of obtaining a thorough knowledge of the same, I 
venture to compose, and present to the travelling 
public, this little guide-book. 

A few notes on climatic health resorts will be 
annexed, which may prove useful to those patients 
who have a dislike to the use of mineral waters, and 
are desirous of obtaining a general recreation by means 
of mountain or sea-air, bodily exercise, and suitable 
diet. 

A map showing the position of the principal springs 
will be added. 

Quite a number of excellent works on balneology 
have been of great service to me ; I mention Helft's, 
Braun's, and Kisch's " Balneotherapie ; " Lersch's 



PREFACE. 



" Fundamente der practischen Balneologie ;" Beneke's 
" Balneologische Briefe ; " and especially Dr. Th. 
Valentiner's " Balneotherapie " (1876); the last- 
named a very elaborate work, containing treatises on 
the various mineral waters, composed by Dr. Valen- 
tiner and other experienced bath physicians. 1 

Besides these works, a large number of monographs 
on various baths, and several guide-books, especially 
Baedeker's, have been consulted with great benefit. 

I am also indebted to Professor Beneke of Nau- 
heim, Dr. Lersch of Aachen, Dr. Gans, senior, of 
Karlsbad, Dr. Schreiber of Aussee, Dr. Rohrig of 
Wildungen, and to many other colleagues, for the 
valuable information I received from them on my 
tours through the various watering places. 

THE AUTHOR. 
London, November, 1879. 



1 It has been deemed expedient to retain such expressions as 
bath physician, bath cure, bath rule, &c., as better expressing 
the meaning of the German words Bade-Arzt, Bade-Kur, Bade- 
Kegel, than their English synonyms. 



CONTENTS 



fart I. 

GENERAL REMARKS ON WATERING PLACES 
AND THE USE OF MINERAL WATERS. 



CHAPTER I. 

ON THE BENEFIT OF VISITING WATERING PLACES. 

PAGE 

Who should travel — Benefit of travelling to patients — 

Change of air, and of living — Imported mineral waters I 

CHAPTER II. 

PREPARING FOR THE JOURNEY. 

Selection of a spa — Who should not travel — The best time 

for a bath course 6 

CHAPTER III. 

THE TRIP TO THE CONTINENT. 

(i) From London — (2) From New York — Money — Lan- 
guage — Passport — Lodgings — Bath physicians . . 9 



Vlll CONTENTS. 



CHAPTER IV. 

GENERAL FEATURES OF THE CONTINENTAL WATERING 
PLACES. 

PAGE 

The conversation-house — Kurgarten — Promenades — 
Hotels — Society — Morality — ■ Bazaar — Cure-tax — 
Prices for baths 15 

CHAPTER V. 

BATH LIFE AND BATH RULES. 

A general rule — Morning scenes at the fountain — How to 
drink — How much to drink — The morning coffee and 
coffee gardens — Clothing — Tables d'hote — Sleep — Ac- 
tive exercise — Concerts — Mental labour — Theatre — 
Dancing — Company — Time for bathing — Tempera- 
ture — Duration and number of baths — Badfriesel . 23 

CHAPTER VI. 

THE DIET DURING THE BATH CURE. 

Importance of the diet — General rules — What patients 
may eat and drink — Beer — Preparatory course — After- 
cure — After-effects — Sight-seeing .... 42 

CHAPTER VII. 

WATER AND AIR. 

Internal use of water — Absorption — Cold water — Warm 
water — Mineral water — External use of water — Cold, 
hot, and indifferent baths — Mineral-water baths — 
Absorption by the skin — City, country, mountain, and 
sea air 53 



CONTENTS. IX 



fart It 



TOPOGRAPHICAL REVIEW OF THE WATERING 
PLACES. 



Introductory remarks — The places which will be described 

— Hotels — Physicians 64 

CHAPTER I. 

THE WATERING PLACES OF GERMANY. 



68 



I. Northern Germany : Nenndorf, Eilsen, Rehme, Pyr 

mont, Meinberg, Lippspringe, Inselbad, Driburg 

II. Western and Middle Germany: Aachen (Aix-la 

Chapelle), Burtscheid, Neuenahr, Bertrich, If reztznacA 
Munster-am-Stein, Wiesbaden, Langenschwalbach 
Schlangenbad, Ems, Weilbach, Soden, Homburg. 
Nauheim, Kissingen, Bocklet, Briickenau, Wildungen 75 

III. Southern Germany: Baden-Baden, Wildbad, Cann- 
stadt, Reichenhall, Kreuth 102 

IV. Eastern Germany : Obersalzbrunn, Warmbrunn, Lan- 
deck, Reinerz, Cudowa . . . . . .113 

Appendix : — Hotels in Bremen, Hamburg, Cologne, Mu- 
nich, Frankfort, Dresden, Berlin . . . .117 

CHAPTER II. 

THE WATERING PLACES OF AUSTRIA. 



I. The Bohemian spas: Karlsbad, Teplitz, Marienbad, 

Franzensbad, Elster, Johannisbad 

II. The spas in Middle Austria: Baden, Voslau, Hall 

Ischl, Aussee, Gastein 

III. The spas in Southern Austria: Gleichenberg, Tobel 
bad, o^itsch, Neuhaus, Tuffer, Romerbad, Villach 
spas in Tyrol, Innischen ..... 



121 
146 

J 54 



CONTENTS. 



CHAPTER III. 

THE WATERING PLACES OF SWITZERLAND. 

PAGE 

Baden — Ragatz-Pfaffers — Alveneu — St. Moritz — Le 

Prese — Bormio — Tarasp — Leuk . . . .162 



fart HI. 

CHEMICAL COMPOSITION AND THERAPEU- 
TICAL APPLICATION OF THE MINERAL 
WATERS. 



General remarks — Classification 174 

CHAPTER I. 

ALKALINE WATERS. 

Soda — Carbonic acid — Glaubersalt — Simple alkaline wa- 
ters — Alkaline muriated — Alkaline saline waters — 
Ems, Karlsbad, Marienbad, &c. .... 176 

CHAPTER II. 

SALINE WATERS. 

Saline springs — Chloride of sodium — Saline Baths — Sool- 
bader — Carbonic acid — Thermal saline baths — Baden- 
Baden, Kissingen, Wiesbaden, &c. .... 198 



CHAPTER III. 

SULPHUR WATERS. 

General remarks — Sulphuretted hydrogen — Cold sulphur 
waters — Warm sulphur waters— Aachen, Neundorf, 
&c 21! 



CONTENTS. XI 



CHAPTER IV. 

IRON WATERS. 

PAGE 

Internal use of iron and iron water — Iron baths — Absorp- 
tion of the iron — Pyrmont — St. Moritz — Langen- 
schwalbach, &c. 227 

CHAPTER V. 

EARTHY WATERS. 

Definition — Carbonate of lime — Sulphate of lime — Wil- 

dungen — Leuk, &c 239 

CHAPTER VI. 

INDIFFERENT THERMAL WATERS. 

Definition — Nerve baths — Effects of the baths — Indica- 
tions — Teplitz— Gastein — Ragatz, &c. . . . 245 



fart BB. 

CLIMATOLOGICAL AND BALNEOLOGICAL 
NOTES. 



CHAPTER I. 

CLIMATIC HEALTH-RESORTS, WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO 
PULMONARY CONSUMPTION. 

On consumption— Alpine heights— Change of air— Rules 
for patients travelling south— Warm air— Equability 
of air— Sunshine— Health-resorts, and intermediate 
stations— Clothing— Diet of consumptives— Sight-see- 
ing— Occupation— Madeira— Cairo— Palermo— Cata- 



Xll CONTENTS. 



nia — Ajaccio — Hyeres — Cannes — Nice — Mentone — 
San Remo — Rome — Naples — Venice — Meran — Bozen 
— Gries — Arco — Montreux — Vevey — Clarens — Ele- 
vated regions — Sanitariums — Gorbersdorf — Davos — 
Summer resorts — Seaside resorts— Ostend — Scheve- 
ningen — Norderney — Borkum — Sylt — Heligoland . 253 

CHAPTER II. 

MISCELLANEOUS CURES. 

Peat, mud, sand, pine-needle, and herb baths — Milk, whey, 
kumys, and grape cures — Herb juices — Hydropathic 
treatment 286 

CHAPTER III. 

THERAPEUTICAL RECAPITULATION. 

Diseases of the digestive and respiratory organs ; of the 
urinary>and uterine system ; of the skin ; and of the 
na^ous system — Constitutional diseases . . . 301 



APPENDIX. 



Comparative Tables of the principal mineral constituents 

of the mineral waters 318 

Coin Table 326 



Index of Watering Places and Health-Resorts . 327 
General Index . . : 329 



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GERMANY, AUSTRIA, AND SWITZERLAND. 



PART I. 

GENERAL REMARKS ON WATERING PLACES 
AND THE USE OF MINERAL WATERS. 

" Mens sana in corpore sano." 



CHAPTER I. 

ON THE BENEFIT OF VISITING WATERING PLACES. 

The English and Americans are travelling nations. 
It is the old restless spirit of wandering which inspires 
them — the same spirit which impelled the Teutonic 
tribes to overrun the Roman Empire, and which once 
drove the Anglo-Saxons from their seat in the 
northern part of Germany to England, and the English 
to America and all the other portions of the globe. 
This spirit is revived every spring, when nature 
awakens, and inspires all living beings with fresh 
energy. It is then that the hearty sons of Old 

B 



2 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

England gird their loins and cross the Channel 
by thousands, and the fair daughters of America 
crowd the swift ocean steamer on their European 
tour. 

A trip to the continent is nowadays an indispensa- 
ble requisite to the so-called fashionable world, and in 
this case all joyfully submit to the easy yoke of that 
pitiless queen called fashion. Happily, this fashion 
need not fear the verdict of the most scrupulous 
moralist, for travelling is a useful and wholesome 
practice ; and although the great mass of travellers 
undoubtedly undertake the voyage only for the sake 
of pleasure, there are, nevertheless, a great many who 
are impelled by the desire to obtain a thorough know- 
ledge of the customs and habits, arts and sciences, of 
the continental nations. And there are many others, 
whose mind and body are so overworked by the cares 
and troubles of business life, which puts such an 
enormous strain on the mental capacity, that a trip 
across the water is not only a much needed relaxa- 
tion, but often an indispensable remedy to restore 
their health. Moreover, the sojourn in a climatic 
health-resort, situated in a mountainous region 
several thousand feet above the sea, proves highly 
efficacious to invigorate and strengthen a shattered 
constitution. These climatic resorts are very nume- 
rous in the Alpine regions of Central Europe, in 
Switzerland, Tyrol, Styria, &c. Here we find sani- 
tariums fitted up in the most elaborate and practical 
style, with the best accommodation for patients, and 
under the supervision of experienced physicians. 
Americans, especially, are obliged to resort to these 



BENEFIT OF VISITING WATERING PLACES. 3 

European places, as America has no regular sani- 
tariums. 

Professor Loom is, of New York, in a lecture before 
the American Medical Association, delivered, in 
Buffalo, in June, 1878, has very properly and 
urgently recommended the erection of sanitariums. 
" It seems to me," he said, " that the necessities of our 
time are demanding the establishment not only of 
well-organized and thoroughly equipped sanitariums 
by the sea, in the mountains, in the cold regions of 
the north, and in the warm regions of the south, but 
that our mineral springs should be utilized for the cure 
of disease." {Medical Record, 1879.) This will be, 
for some time to come, a desideratum, and American 
patients are obliged to go abroad in search of sani- 
tariums. 

Finally, a large number of travellers are patients, 
who undergo the hardships of the voyage for the sole 
purpose of regaining their health by the use of a 
continental spa. Many efficacious waters — as, for 
instance, those of Karlsbad, Marienbad, Kissingen, 
&c. — are not equalled either in England or in America. 
The latter has a multitude of mineral springs in all 
parts of the wide country, but many of these are 
scarcely known, or have not been accurately analyzed, 
or are difficult of access. At all events, a visit to a 
foreign spa has some advantages, which cannot always 
be attained at home. The voyage in itself is generally 
exceedingly beneficial to many patients, especially to 
those affected with disorders of the abdominal 
organs, or with nervous affections resulting there- 
from. 

B 2 



4 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

A protracted sea voyage, as it is undertaken by 
those who cross the ocean, is even far more beneficial, 
particularly to invalids whose constitution is impaired 
by diseases of long standing. The fresh sea- air, free 
from organic impurities, impregnated with salt, and 
rich in ozone, is invigorating and strengthening ; it 
increases the appetite, promotes the digestion, and 
improves the assimilation and nutrition. Therefore 
Celsus already has recommended long sea voyages to 
patients affected with bronchial catarrhs, consumption, 
&c. 

Of no less importance is the entire change in the 
mode of living, and the different kinds of society which 
English and Americans meet on the continent. To 
these, everything there is new ; food, company, 
climate, hotels, all differ from what they are accus- 
tomed to see at home. The enforced alteration of diet 
and habits, the giving up of a long practised routine 
of daily life, the ease and comfort enjoyed by the tem- 
porary discontinuance of business, all this is eminently 
beneficial to a patient ; and as most of the watering- 
places are situated in picturesque and pleasant regions, 
surrounded by forests or mountains, the novelty of 
scenery, the fresh, bracing mountain air, the daily 
exercise, are powerful agents in perfecting a cure. 

In fact, all persons afflicted with chronic diseases, 
which are curable and proper objects for a treatment 
by mineral waters, should resort for a short time to a 
mineral spring, not only on account of its curative 
powers, but even more for the sake of relaxation, of 
fresh, pure air, and proper, wholesome diet. 

Natural mineral waters, securely bottled, being now- 



BENEFIT OF VISITING WATERING PLACES. 5 

adays exported to all parts of the globe, many 
believe them to be fully as efficient when taken at 
the patient's residence, as when drunk at the spring. 
This I believe to be a mistake. A regular strict 
treatment, as it is enforced by the physicians of a well 
regulated watering place, cannot be carried on at 
home. Business, family, old habits of living, and 
more often, divers irregularities of living, prevent the 
patient from adhering strictly to the rules prescribed 
for the use of the waters ; he would not rise early in 
the morning for the sake of drinking a few glasses of 
water ; afraid of neglecting his business, he would not 
spend several hours of the day for necessary exercise ; 
nor would he wish to have the diet of the whole 
family changed on his account, because the usual diet 
does not agree with the mineral water, and so on. 
Moreover, there are waters whose efficacy mainly 
depends on their high natural temperature : it would 
hardly be possible for any patient, however careful, to 
raise the heat of the bottled water every morning to 
exactly the same degree. Other springs, particularly 
those impregnated with carbonic acid, lose that 
natural, fresh, prickling taste, which makes them so 
agreeable when taken on the spot, and which con- 
tributes a good deal to their universal popularity. 



WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 



CHAPTER II. 

PREPARING FOR THE JOURNEY. 

The first question to be settled is : which bath shall 
be visited by the invalid. This must be decided by 
the physician after careful examination, the patient 
himself, even with the aid of the best work on balne- 
ology, not being able to make the proper selection. 
It requires not only a full understanding of the par- 
ticular case on the part of the examining physician, 
but also a thorough knowledge of the chemical con- 
stituents and medicinal effects, the climate, arrange- 
ments, locality, and even society of the various water- 
ing places. Some patients, having a predilection for 
elegant, fashionable society, would prefer to visit one 
of the fashionable luxurious, expensive spas near the 
Rhine ; while others would feel far more comfortable, 
and would derive more benefit, by resorting to one 
of the quiet, secluded, and cheaper, but not less effi- 
cient baths in Styria or Silesia. English and Ameri- 
cans, on account of the shorter route, may rather 
select a spa in the western part of Germany than one 
in Bohemia, if the same effect can there be obtained. 
A mountain climate at an elevation of 4000 feet 
above the sea might be very wholesome to some 



PREPARING FOR THE JOURNEY, 



patients affected with bronchial catarrhs, while to 
others, suffering from the same malady, it would be 
deleterious. These and many other circumstances 
must be considered by a conscientious physician when 
selecting a bath for his patient. 

And here I believe it opportune to remark, that 
patients in the last stages of consumption, or Bright's 
disease, or other chronic affections, should not be 
allowed to undergo the hardships and the excitement 
of a trip to a watering-place, thereby sacrificing the 
little amount of strength they still possess, for the 
imaginary hope of an impossible cure. It is the 
sacred duty of a physician to dissuade them from the 
journey; though very often the contrary takes place. 
Every bath physician during the bath season, has the 
opportunity of examining quite a number of incurable 
invalids, who have been sent to the spa by unscrupu- 
lous medical advisers, never again to return to their 
homes. Far away from their families, surrounded 
by strangers, more helpless and suffering than ever so 
before, they vainly long for the tender care of their 
relatives during the last days of their earthly pilgri- 
mage. 

In order to save the bath physician time and trou- 
ble, every invalid should hand him a certificate from 
his usual attending physician, briefly stating the 
history and nature of his case. 

The best seasons for a bath cure are the spring 
and summer, the time from the first of May until the 
middle of September being the most favourable on 
the continent in regard to weather and temperature. 
Americans should depart in April, in order to com- 



8 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

mence the cure early in spring, particularly if, as is 
usually the case, they desire to travel when having 
terminated the bath course. 

German poets are very enthusiastic in praise of 
spring, and undoubtedly it is the most delightful 
season of the year on the continent. 

Every one knows the influence of the weather on 
the disposition ; invalids are even far more affected 
by it : they feel better and more cheerful when the 
sun shines warm and bright ; they are depressed and 
desponding when clouds darken the sky. Therefore 
it is not surprising that all writers on balneology 
recommend the beginning of a bath-cure when nature 
awakens from the long sleep of winter, the blossoms 
of trees and plants shoot forth, and new life is in- 
fused to all creation. Constant exercise in the open 
air being essential for the success of the treatment, it 
is obvious that this can be best attained during the 
fine spring and summer months. 

Hot mineral waters, which produce easy perspira- 
tion, and sometimes congestions of the brain, should 
be taken during the cooler days of spring ; it is also 
advisable for irritable, nervous persons, and for those 
with an apoplectic habit and a strong disposition to 
perspire, to commence treatment early in the spring. 
Old invalids, convalescents after severe diseases, and 
rheumatic patients, may rather defer their bath-course 
to the warm summer days, being then in less danger 
of taking 'cold. Iron waters and cold mineral waters 
are generally better tolerated during the summer 
season. 



THE TRIP TO THE CONTINENT. 



CHAPTER III. 

THE TRIP TO THE CONTINENT. 

I. From London to the Continent. 

The most favoured routes between London and the 
continent are — 

(a) From Dover to Calais, twice a day in if 

hours (Railway from London to Dover in 
2 to 4 hours). 

(b) From Dover to Ostend twice a day, but once 

only on Saturdays and Sundays, in 4 to 5 
hours. 

(c) From Harwich to Rotterdam, daily, in 13 

hours (Railway from London to Harwich in 
2 to 3 hours). 

(d) From Queenborough to Flushing every even- 

ing (Sundays excepted), in 9 to 10 hours 
(Railway from London to Queenborough in 
2 hours). 

(e) From London to Bremen, twice a week, in 

36 hours. 
(/) From London to Hamburg, five times a 
week, in 40 hours. 

II. From New York to the Continent. 
There are three lines of steamers sailing from New 



10 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

York directly to the continent, which are particularly 
patronized by American travellers. These are — 

(a) The North German Lloyd steamers leave 
New York for Bremen every Saturday at 
3 p.m. (landing passengers at Southampton). 
ib) The Hamburg-American Steamship Com- 
pany steamer leaves New York every 
Thursday at 3 p.m. for Hamburg (landing 
passengers at Plymouth and Cherbourg). 
(c) The General Transatlantic Company's steamers 
leave New York every Wednesday for Havre. 
All the steamers of these lines have first class ac- 
commodations and moderate prices, a reduction being 
allowed for return tickets. The second and third 
lines are convenient for passengers desirous of visit- 
ing Paris, before going to a watering-place ; those 
wishing to go directly to Germany should take the 
Bremen or Hamburg line. 

Landed on terra firma y the patient should travel 
slowly, and by short distances, to the place of desti- 
nation, especially avoiding night travel ; for should 
he arrive fatigued and exhausted, he would be unable 
for some time to commence the course. Railway 
travelling on the continent is generally not very com- 
fortable, the railway carriages on most of the roads 
being divided into small compartments, with deficient 
ventilation, bad air, and without any of the accom- 
modations with which, for instance, the railway- 
carriages on the American roads are provided. 

Most earnestly I would advise English and Ameri- 
cans who are about to visit the spas of Central 
Europe, viz. : of Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, 



THE TRIP TO THE CONTINENT. II 

to study the German language before their departure ; 
a little knowledge will be very useful, because those 
entirely ignorant of it are subject to a great deal of 
annoyance and loss of money. English, and even 
more Americans, when travelling on the continent 
are generally overcharged ; of the latter each one is 
considered a Croesus. And this indeed is not sur- 
prising, as many who had become rich during the 
war and the greenback millennium rushed to Europe, 
and squandered the money in a most extravagant, 
and often ridiculous manner. And our German and 
Swiss friends were not slow to take advantage of this 
circumstance. It has often happened that Americans 
not acquainted with the German money and language, 
when asked for payment in cafes or restaurants, would 
hand their pocket-books to the waiters for the purpose 
of taking out the required sum. Such a confidence 
in the honesty of waiters, servants, or even proprietors 
of public places or shops, is entirely out of place ; 
most of them are unscrupulous persons, who take 
every possible advantage of the ignorance of strangers. 

My advice, based on the experience of many years' 
travelling, is : not to trust such persons at all, but to 
scrutinize carefully every bill of charge, especially if 
presented by hotel-keepers shortly before leaving. 

The coin used in France and Switzerland is the 
franc (i franc = ioo centimes) = g\ pence English 
and 19 cents. American money ; the legal coin of 
Germany is the mark (1 Mark = 100 Pfennige) = 1 
shilling English and 24 cents American money. 
Austria has the florin or Gulden (1 fl. = 100 Kreut- 
zers) equal to 2 shillings or 49 cents. It is always 



12 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

profitable to be provided with some foreign money, 
in order to defray the necessary expenses when land- 
ing on foreign soil. 

I call the attention of all who have never travelled 
on the continent to the fact, that charges for bag- 
gage are very high on all continental railways ; only 
50 lbs. are allowed to be carried free of charge, and 
even this privilege is not granted on all roads. Every 
trunk is carefully weighed at the station, and every 
pound must be paid for. Ladies who are in the habit 
of taking a large number of good, solid, heavy trunks 
with them, may take notice of this rule, if desirous 
of saving much money. The freight charges are 
lower if the trunks are sent by freight-trains (Eilgut), 
but they often arrive far later than their owner at the 
place of destination. Gentlemen fond of good cigars 
should supply themselves, but not with too large a 
quantity, because they are obliged to pay duty on 
them on the frontier of every country through which 
they pass, this being the only dutiable article for which 
the custom-house officers are on the constant look- 
out. A small quantity is allowed to pass free of 
duty. 

It is a good precaution to procure a passport from 
the government before leaving home : the continental 
governments, in consequence of the recent attempts 
on the life of several sovereigns, are anxiously con- 
trolling the travelling public, and in some places — as 
in Berlin — the passport of every stranger must be 
delivered to the hotel keeper, in order to be examined 
by the police — an annoyance which had been abolished 
for a very long time. Americans are rarely molested 



THE TRIP TO THE CONTINENT. 1 3 

in Europe ; but being unacquainted with the laws and 
regulations, they may possibly become involved in 
difficulties with the authorities ; in this case a passport 
will prove their identity, and save them a good deal of 
trouble. 

Having arrived at the watering place, the best one 
can do is to settle for some time by hiring a furnished 
room. To live in hotels is not customary on the 
continent, except for a short stay.; and patients 
particularly, who always require rest, should never 
remain long in noisy hotels. The rooms selected 
should be high and airy, and if possible with a 
southern exposure, and not far from the spring ; for 
it is very unpleasant, particularly on rainy days, to be 
obliged to march a long distance to the spring early 
in the morning, and to commence drinking when 
more or less fatigued or overheated. 

After a protracted journey the patient should not 
hurry to begin the cure at once, but should rather rest 
a day or two, in order to recreate and regain his full 
strength. The next important step to be taken is, to 
consult an experienced bath physician. To enter upon 
a bath-course without medical advice would not be 
prudent ; bath physicians know best the operations of 
the springs. Being in the habit of attending for years 
to a large number of patients suffering with similar 
affections, they acquire a thorough knowledge of these, 
and quite a routine in their treatment. It cannot be 
denied that it is precisely this routine which often 
induces them to treat the patients in a certain uniform 
manner, and great complaints on this matter are heard 
at every watering place ; but in spite of this, no 



14 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

patient should neglect to seek the advice of a bath 
doctor. Of course, there are many who believe that 
mineral water, being indifferent medicine, can be taken 
ad libitum, and without any detriment ; but this is a 
great mistake ; many springs are powerful remedies, 
and when indiscriminately used, have often proved 
dangerous to patients. Others, seeing no immediate 
result of the treatment, travel from one spring to 
another. This is unreasonable. Give the spring you 
have selected a fair trial ; do not expect to be cured 
within the short time of a few weeks, of a chronic 
disease of long standing ; do not become impatient ; re- 
main } drink, bathe, and you will succeed. 



FEATURES OF CONTINENTAL WATERING PLACES. 1 5 



CHAPTER IV. 

GENERAL FEATURES OF THE CONTINENTAL 
WATERING PLACES. 

A CERTAIN uniformity of the institutions exists at 
most of the watering places of Central Europe. The 
experience and practice of many years have demon- 
strated what arrangements are necessary for the com- 
fort and entertainment of the visitors ; thus they are 
mostly alike, the requirements of the patients being 
almost the same at the various spas. Everywhere do 
the authorities rival each other in their efforts to make 
their respective places as attractive as possible, in order 
to gain the most extensive patronage, as the welfare of 
their inhabitants mainly depends on their earnings 
during the bath season. A great difference exists in 
the magnificence and magnitude of the establish- 
ments. Of course they are more extensive and more 
elegant at the fashionable and renowned spas, as for 
instance Karlsbad or Wiesbaden, than at the quiet 
modest, unpretending places of the Black Forest or 
Switzerland. The centre of attraction in nearly all of 
them, is the conversation-house, or Kurhaus ; here the 
visitors flock together during certain hours of the day, 
either for the purpose of drinking or bathing — as in 
many spas the springs and bathing-rooms are in it or 



l6 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

near by — or for entertainment. It always contains a 
large concert and ball-room, handsomely, and in some 
of the fashionable Rhenish baths, as in Homburg and 
Baden-Baden, even extravagantly fitted up, elegant 
dining-rooms, billiard-rooms, and comfortable reading- 
rooms, provided with a multitude of the principal 
English, French, and German newspapers and perio- 
dicals. The restaurants connected with the conversa- 
tion-houses are generally first class in price and 
quality. 

Adjoining the Kurhaus is generally the Kurgarten, 
the pride of every well-organized watering place, with 
large trees hundreds of years old, whose shade affords 
ease and comfort to the patients, while drinking, 
promenading, or listening to the music. Here every 
morning from six to eight o'clock, a band under the 
leadership of an experienced conductor, performs 
select compositions of the best masters. In the after- 
noon and evening, concerts given at the Kurgarten, 
or sometimes at other public places, also attract the 
majority of visitors. To spend several hours of the 
day in the garden, inhaling the fresh pure air, listen- 
ing to the masterpieces of Mozart, Beethoven, 
Weber, etc., chatting, gossiping, and drinking excellent 
coffee, is considered the greatest charm of bath life. 
Balls are also arranged. Those fond of the theatre 
or the opera have the opportunity of hearing celebrated 
actors and singers, who, during the bath season, 
travel from one fashionable place to another, winning 
laurels and money. 1 

1 Most of the watering places have an English church, where 
the usual services are held. 



FEATURES OF CONTINENTAL WATERING PLACES. \J 

Shady promenades, and walks through the forests, 
kept in good order and provided with many resting- 
places, encourage the patients to stroll about even 
during the hottest hours of the warm summer days. 
This is of the greatest importance, as constant though 
moderate exercise is absolutely necessary for the 
success of the treatment. For the same reason excur- 
sions on a small scale are highly recommendable, so 
much the more as the scenery around most of the 
springs is generally picturesque and interesting. Those 
who wish to derive the most benefit, may walk ; 
invalids too weak to walk for any length of time, may 
ride on mules or in carriages. Little waggons drawn 
by donkeys can be hired for a moderate charge by 
the hour or day. Wherever you go or drive you 
find cafes and restaurants, where coffee, milk, seltzer 
water, and other refreshments are served at fair prices. 
Nowhere are you in danger of being molested or 
insulted by rude people ; a vigilant and attentive police 
guard your personal security. 

The hotels vary in size and comfort according to 
the class of customers they receive. Some, having the 
reputation of being patronized by the high nobility, or 
the high functionaries of state, or the nabobs of the 
moneyed aristocracy, are fitted up in very elegant 
style. The expense of living in such hotels is high, 
the system of boarding being in general not customary 
on the continent. The proprietors charge a certain 
price for rooms and meals, adding various sums for a 
great many little extras, in the shape of candles, 
service, &c. Hotels frequented by English travellers 
are the most comfortable ; they have reading-rooms, 

C 



1 8 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

good clean beds, and comfortable arrangements. 
Their charges are somewhat higher than those of the 
other hotels, but travellers who do not hesitate to 
spend a little more money for the sake of cleanliness 
and comfort, should stop at these. However, there 
are everywhere good hotels, patronized by the better 
classes of society, where moderate prices are charged, 
and where guests receive more attention than at the 
so-called first class hotels. The rule for patients is, 
to remain at the hotel no longer than necessary to 
find furnished apartments, of which plenty can be had 
at every watering place ; the inhabitants, in order to 
gain as much money as possible, give up their best 
rooms to the visitors, while they themselves take up 
their abode in small garret-rooms. The prices of 
rooms vary according to locality, outfit, and season. 
Elegant rooms can be had in handsome villas, for 
which a handsome price is charged ; but there are 
many others, fully answering all reasonable demands, 
which are let at moderate prices. In fact you can 
live just as you choose. Even in the most fashionable 
spas, as for instance, Baden-Baden, Homburg, &c, 
you can live economically. 

Highly interesting to every visitor of the larger 
watering places is the great variety of the society 
which assembles there. Places like Wiesbaden, 
Karlsbad, Baden-Baden, can really be styled world 
baths. There, in the height of the season, you find 
representatives of all nations of the globe ; promenad- 
ing in the Kurgarten or under the colonnades, you 
hear conversation carried on in all the languages of 
the civilized world. Distinction of rank and class 



FEATURES OF CONTINENTAL WATERING PLACES. 19 

seems to have disappeared for a short time ; persons 
who at home would hardly recognize each other, here 
meet on neutral ground in a friendly and genteel 
manner. Proud kings and potentates walk uncere- 
moniously among humble plebeians, great statesmen, 
profound scholars, celebrated artists, rich nabobs, 
poor school-teachers, broad shouldered peasants, and 
last, but not least, celebrities of the demi-monde, all 
mixed promiscuously, united by the common desire 
to amuse themselves as well as possible during the 
time of their involuntary sojourn. I say involuntary, 
because the majority of visitors, particularly those 
who are truly ailing and undergo a strict treatment, 
rejoice when the day of departure arrives, and with it, 
as they often foolishly believe, the liberty to again 
indulge in former irregularities of living. There is 
another class of bath visitors, whom one might rather 
Cd\\ fancy patients ; they flock to the watering places, 
only because it is the fashion to do so. Belonging to 
the wealthier classes of society, they particularly 
patronize the elegant, fashionable Rhenish spas, 
where they are sure to meet the best and most select 
company, the elite of the European society. Gay and 
joyful fugitives from home, they drink a few glasses 
of mineral water in the morning, merely as a matter 
of form, and devote the remainder of the day to 
pleasure and amusement. The Bohemian spas — Karls- 
bad, Marienbad, &c. — although not less frequented, 
have the reputation of being chiefly visited by such 
patients as are really in need of careful medical 
treatment, and who generally pass through a regular 
and often even severe, bath course. 

C 2 



20 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

No complaint can reasonably be made of the 
public morality at the German watering places, since 
the gambling-houses have been closed. Decency and 
good manners prevail everywhere ; only those can 
find fault who disapprove of all kinds of amusements, 
however innocent, and who always grumble and growl 
at the immorality of our time, while in reality for 
hundreds of years society has not reached such a high 
standard of morality as it nowadays enjoys. It was 
not so in the good old times. The celebrated Poggio 
has given an amusing description of bath life in the 
fifteenth century. At that time the baths undoubtedly 
were the seat of great immorality and licentiousness ; 
men and women, boys and girls, were in the habit of 
bathing together, perfectly nude, and behaved in the 
most disgraceful manner. The practice of ladies and 
gentlemen bathing together in large swimming-baths 
still prevails in some places ; as in Leuk (Switzerland), 
Baden (near Vienna), Neuhaus and Tiiffer (Styria), 
&c. ; but each bather must wear a long bathing-gown, 
and not the slightest indecency ever occurs. 

As a general feature of the various baths the 
bazaars deserve to be mentioned, for which, in some 
places — as Wiesbaden, Beichenhall, &c. — very hand- 
some buildings have been erected. They are an 
accommodation for the visitors, and an inducement to 
spend their money for a good many handsome, and 
sometimes useful, but at all events not very cheap, 
articles — be they those pretty knick-knacks, or notions, 
exhibited equally as good and cheap in the brilliant 
show-windows of the Strand or Oxford Street, or on 
Broadway ; or fancy articles manufactured as a 



FEATURES OF CONTINENTAL WATERING PLACES. 21 

specialty at the particular place ; or like the Sprudel 
stones at Karlsbad, or those elegantly framed oil- 
pictures, offered at many spas as genuine Canalettos 
or Tintorettos, but in reality inferior copies, of no 
value. 

This is the general appearance of a continental spa. 
To keep the various institutions in good order, to 
make new improvements, to engage well-trained 
bands of music, requires a considerable outlay of 
money. In order to defray these expenses, every 
person residing above a week at a watering place, 
must pay a small fee, called Kurtaxe, for which sum 
he obtains the right of free entrance to the conversa- 
tion-house, reading-rooms, &c, and the privilege of 
drinking as much of the mineral waters as he pleases. 
Different prices are charged for the baths ; tickets are 
sold for first, second, and even third class baths, the 
first class being a little more elegant : a considerable 
reduction is usually made to those who buy a dozen 
tickets. At some places, as for instance at Karlsbad, 
higher charges are stipulated for baths taken from 
seven a.m. to three p.m., than for those taken later. 
At most of the spas the bathing-rooms, especially of 
the first class, are handsomely fitted up, the tubs 
being constructed of marble or porcelain ; well-trained 
and courteous waiters are everywhere in attendance. 
Baths taken in large basins in company with others 
are cheaper than single baths, but not to be recom- 
mended, as the bathers are wrapped in long bathing- 
gowns which prevent the water from coming in close 
contact with the skin, whereby it loses much of its 
efficacy. A popular prejudice exists in regard to 



22 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

common baths, based on the belief that one may there 
contract some contagious disease : this seems to be 
erroneous, as we have no proof that such has ever 
occurred. 



BATH LIFE AND BATH RULES. 23 



CHAPTER V. 

BATH LIFE AND BATH RULES. 

Be regular in all your doings ; rise early, retire early, 
eat and drink moderately, and, if possible, always at 
the same hour of the day ; be constantly in the open 
air, and do not trouble your mind with business 
affairs. These are the principal rules of bath life. 

From six to eight in the morning the patients 
gather around the fountains, each one armed with a 
porcelain cup, or a glass, holding from six to eight 
ounces of water. The fountains are generally covered 
by structures in the shape of small pavilions or 
temples. In some spas, as, for instance, in Homburg, 
they are uncovered and surrounded by splendid marble 
work. Long colonnades, either of marble or iron, are 
annexed, protecting patients, while drinking, from rain 
or sunshine. Here they stand in long rows, one behind 
the other, waiting patiently for their turn, ladies and 
gentlemen promiscuously, no preference being given 
either to the fair sex, or to the aristocrat, or to the 
proud priest ; all are alike before the goddess of the 
fountain, represented by a young girl, who will speed- 
ily fill your cup, as soon as you have a chance to 
approach her. Then you step aside and slowly drink 



24 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

the water, while either standing or sitting, but not 
walking or chatting. Some persons, fearing the water 
may injure the teeth, prefer to sip it through a glass 
tube. This is hardly necessary, as no mineral water 
contains substances strong enough to corrode the 
teeth ; but if the water is very hot there is no harm 
in observing this precaution. 

If you go early to the well you have the advantage 
of being served promptly, otherwise you are often 
obliged to stand in a line with several hundred per- 
sons, advancing slowly, until at last the fountain is 
reached ; and that annoyance must be endured four, 
five times, and oftener, according to the number of 
cupsful you have to drink. The time-honoured 
practice of drinking early in the morning is no fancy, 
but has a rational basis. Because, not only is the 
cool, bracing morning air highly beneficial to the 
patients, especially to those who drink hot springs, 
but, what is most important, the stomach then is 
empty, and best prepared to digest and absorb the 
mineral, water. Full-blooded persons, and those in- 
clined to perspire freely, should always go early to 
the fountain, especially if they drink hot waters. The 
rule not to take any nourishment before going to the 
well should not be too strictly applied to weak 
invalids, who may take a cup of coffee or tea as a 
stimulant, in order to strengthen themselves for their 
morning task. It is customary to drink the water at 
intervals of fifteen, twenty, or thirty minutes, in order 
to give the stomach sufficient time to digest it. To 
promote the absorption, patients promenade under the 
colonnades, or in the Kurgarten ; but they should not 



BATH LIFE AND BATH RULES. 25 

walk fast, nor should they overheat themselves, as so 
many over-zealous persons are in the habit of doing. 
After the usual interval of fifteen minutes another 
cup of the water may be taken ; but if a sensation of 
fulness in the stomach is felt, it is better to wait ten 
or fifteen minutes longer. Sometimes cold mineral 
waters are not well tolerated by the stomach ; in this 
case they should be warmed, for which purpose the 
necessary appliances are everywhere provided. To 
increase the medicinal effect of the waters, many 
patients, particularly those affected with bronchial 
diseases, mix them with warm milk or whey. The 
number of glasses to be taken must be determined by 
the bath doctor ; it varies according to the nature of 
the disease, the age and constitution of the patient, 
and the absorbing power of the stomach. There are 
many patients who, erroneously believing that the 
larger the quantity of water they drink the quicker 
must be the recovery, flood the stomach with immense 
quantities. But they are greatly mistaken. Nature 
will never submit ■ to our arbitrary dictates. A feeble 
condition usually takes hold of the patient who 
drinks excessively ; nausea, dyspepsia, loss of appe- 
tite, are symptoms of the deranged digestion. The 
nutrition is impaired, congestion of the brain, and even 
apoplexy, often occur. As soon as the first of these 
symptoms is noticed the patient must stop drinking 
for a few days, and then recommence with a very 
small quantity. 

Having finished your morning task by swallowing 
the prescribed quantity of water, you must take a 
walk of about an hour before taking breakfast. This 



26 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

exercise is necessary, as a stomach expanded by water 
is not able to digest food. By promenading you pro- 
mote the absorption of the mineral water, and increase 
your appetite. But promenading does not mean run- 
ning. Many patients spoil their health by running 
about in the woods every morning, returning to the 
breakfast-table exhausted and overheated. Coffee or 
tea, with one or two rolls, and one or two soft-boiled 
eggs, are quite sufficient for breakfast. Fish, meat, 
or hot cakes should not be taken. The English, 
being very exclusive, generally take breakfast at their 
hotels or lodging-houses. Far more preferable is the 
German custom of resorting to a garden restaurant? 
To sit there sipping the delicious high-flavoured coffee, 
nowhere else so well prepared as at the larga watering 
places of Central Europe, while inhaling the fresh, 
bracing morning air, among hundreds of other visitors, 
every one coming provided with a paper-bag filled 
with fresh Vienna rolls, is indeed one of the charms of 
German bath-life. The Austrian spas are especially 
celebrated for having the best coffee gardens, an 
unsurpassed coffee, and excellent Vienna bread — so 
excellent, indeed, that many patients cannot with- 
stand the temptation of eating too much of it, thereby 
frequently producing indigestion. And here it also 
seems appropriate to admonish against eating those 
rich and quite indigestible cakes {Pretzels) offered for 
sale by the bakers at most of the watering places. 

The morning and evening hours being generally 
very cool on the continent, patients should dress 
accordingly. They should always wear flannel Under- 
shirts •, even on very warm days, as the weather often 



BATH LIFE AND BATH RULES. 2J 

suddenly changes from warm to cold. For the same 
reason they should always be provided with a shawl 
or an overcoat. Being mostly out-doors, promenading 
in the woods or shady walks, they feel inclined to sit 
down from time to time to enjoy a short rest, or to 
stop on some elevated point to take a view of the 
surrounding scenery. The perspiration being always 
increased by the exercise, they are very apt to take 
cold, if not prepared to make immediate use of a 
wrap. This happens so frequently, particularly during 
the warm summer days, that every bath doctor should 
direct the special attention of his patients to this 
subject. It is surprising how careless the latter are 
in this respect. To carry a shawl is too troublesome ; 
but they forget that a catarrh caused by suppressed 
perspiration is far more troublesome, and sometimes 
even dangerous. Ladies while drinking the mineral 
water should not wear their corsets or dresses too tight, 
as this would prevent the stomach from expanding, 
especially if the water is rich in carbonic acid. 

After breakfast it is expedient to walk a short time, 
and to rest thereafter until noon. Dinner is usually 
taken at one o'clock. In many watering places, espe- 
cially in Germany and Switzerland, the fashion of 
table d'hote dinners prevails, in my opinion a very 
undesirable practice. As a general thing, patients 
eat too much at these dinners — the variety of dishes, 
and the length of time spent at the table, enticing 
them to fill their stomachs with a load of indigestible 
food. This especially refers to a certain class of 
patients, who at home live on a small scale and on a 
scanty diet ; these, delighted by the novelty of sitting 



23 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

at a large, opulent table, in the company of fashion- 
able society, are too much inclined to yield to the 
temptation, and to indulge too freely in the consump- 
tion of ragouts, heavy puddings, and all kinds of 
compound dishes which compose the unwholesome 
fare at a first class table d'hote. Ladies should keep 
in mind that they considerably impair the digestion 
by going to the table d'hote en grande tenue. In full 
dress, the stomach is so compressed by corsets and 
dresses, that its functions can hardly be performed. 
These so very popular table d'hote dinners should 
be abolished, they being inimical to health, and one 
of the principal causes of indigestion. To be sure, 
many patients participate in them merely for the 
purpose of taking their repast in company with the 
well educated, refined class of people who usually 
assemble at these table d'hotes. But they can meet 
with such society just as well at the large restaurants 
where dinners a la carte are served. In the Austrian 
watering places table d'hote dinners are not custo- 
mary, to the great advantage of the patients ; nor are 
dishes unfit for patients under treatment by mineral 
waters allowed to be put on the bill of fare. Almost 
all patients eat a la carte, and order such dishes as 
agree with their constitution and the nature of their 
disease. On the whole, according to my experience, 
the cooking in Austria is plainer and more whole- 
some for invalids than that in Germany, where too 
much fat, or butter of a dubious quality, is used in 
preparing the victuals. 

After dinner a moderate exercise is again recom- 
mended. Old or weak persons may rest a short 



BATH LIFE AND BATH RULES. 29 

time ; a little nap on an easy chair, or on a bench 
under a shady tree, is not so dangerous as still be- 
lieved by many bath doctors, who indeed consider 
any sleep after dinner a fearful violation of that old 
bath rule which strictly forbids such a siesta as ex- 
tremely hazardous. There is no doubt that to full- 
blooded persons, with an apoplectic habit, a long 
sleep after dinner may prove injurious, as during that 
time the digestion is in full action, and congestion of 
the brain easily occurs ; but such persons should at 
all times abstain from sleeping after a heavy meal, 
especially on warm, close days, on which the pro- 
pensity to cerebral congestion is increased. 

There are many patients who, having hardly 
finished their dinner, hasten away to run about in 
the woods, or to climb as many hills as possible, 
erroneously believing thereby to facilitate the diges- 
tion. Especially those who pass through a bath 
course for the first time, are mostly under the im- 
pression that a great deal of exercise, combined with 
profuse perspiration, is absolutely necessary for the 
success of the treatment ; they very often overdo the 
work by zealously running about the whole afternoon 
until late in the evening, climbing up and down the 
surrounding hills and mountains until fatigue and 
exhaustion force them to return to their residence. 
Such excessive exercise is injurious, and should never 
be indulged in, not even by strong persons. All 
extreme habits are unfavourable to the success of the 
treatment ; to keep the " golden mean " is an old 
rule, which should be adhered to by patients even 
more strictly than by others. We therefore repeat, 



30 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

as the principal rule of bath life, proclaimed with 
singular unanimity by all bath physicians, take con- 
stant but moderate exercise in the open air, alter- 
nating with intervals of rest and recreation. Patients 
should stroll on the shady promenades of the Kur- 
garten, walk through the forests, especially through 
pine woods, and may also climb hills of moderate 
elevation, the latter exercise being even more pro- 
fitable than promenading on the plain, as it requires 
a little more exertion, and accelerates the circulation 
of the blood and the peristaltic action of the bowels. 
Moreover, the view of a pleasant scenery, varying as 
often as another high point is reached, is animating 
and exhilarating to the mind of the patients, who 
soon become wearied by the monotony of bath life. 
" Bodily exercise," says Braun, " strains on all branches 
of the organic life— as the consumption and repro- 
duction of muscular tissue, which is manifested by 
the growing muscular power, and the increase of the 
urea, and the chloride of sodium of the urine ; the 
promotion of the respiratory process, which is per- 
manently increased by the growing power of the 
respiratory muscles ; the activity of the function of 
the skin and all glandular organs ; the augmentation 
of hunger and of the supply of food, and consequently 
of the digestion and assimilation of the nutriments — 
the result of all this being a better nutrition of the 
blood and the tissues." 

Excursions on a small scale are very recommend- 
able ; the bodily exercise connected with them, the 
change of air and scenery, always exert a beneficial 
influence on the body and the mind of the patient. 



BATH LIFE AND BATH RULES. 3 1 

But such little trips should not be converted into 
extended railway excursions, from which the patient 
returns so fatigued and exhausted that he is hardly 
able the next morning to rise and to walk to the 
spring. Such a practice, though very often indulged 
in, is imprudent. 

The principal and most agreeable entertainments 
for most of the patients, and the best way to spend 
part of the afternoon, are the regular concerts given 
by the band {Kurkapelle) of the spa in the public 
parks. This is the time and place for the general 
reunion of the visitors, who go there to see and to be 
seen, and to take their afternoon coffee. A great 
many patients are in the habit of again overloading 
the stomach with a large number of cakes or rolls ; 
they should not eat any such things so soon after 
dinner. There is no objection to taking coffee in the 
afternoon, as it may somewhat assist the digestion if 
taken without, or at least with very little, cream ; but 
to eat pastry again is a noxious practice on the part 
of invalids, whose digestive power is impaired by the 
daily draughts of large quantities of mineral water. 

After the concert, patients may again take a little 
walk, and after taking a light supper should retire 
early, in order to have sufficient time for a sound, long 
sleep, which is the best means of refreshing and 
invigorating themselves. 

All mental labour and excitement must be strictly 
avoided, the mind needing rest just as well as the 
body. Therefore, when you leave your house, give 
orders not to trouble you with business affairs. To 
read a long time in a close and ill-ventilated reading- 



32 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

room is not advisable. If you cannot do without 
reading, take your newspaper, or some other light 
reading matter, and glance over it while sitting on a 
pleasant resting-place in the woods or gardens, always 
keeping in mind that fresh air is the elixir of life. 
Extensive letter-writing is decidedly pernicious ; by 
sitting at the desk and writing you compress the 
stomach and intestines, and impede the digestion. 
I especially call the attention of the ladies to this 
point, as many of them are in the habit of attending 
to their correspondence late in the evening, and of 
spending several hours in writing long letters. A 
restless night, a sleep disturbed by vague dreams, 
head-ache, and general relaxation, are the results of 
the excitement produced by such a practice. 

I cannot refrain from denouncing another bad 
practice, very much indulged in at some of the large 
watering places, as Karlsbad, Marienbad, Kissingen, 
&c, viz., that of playing cards or chess for several 
hours after dinner. The excitement of the game, and 
the loss of proper exercise after the principal meal of 
the day, combined with a lengthy stay in an ill- 
ventilated, warm room, which generally is filled with 
smoke and impure air, must necessarily exert a 
detrimental effect on the digestion. 

It remains to say a few words on the theatre and 
the dance. While of themselves an occasional dance, 
or attendance on theatrical performances, might not 
be injurious, still I consider both entertainments 
unsuitable for invalids. A crowded theatre, filled with 
a vitiated, foul air, is not a suitable place for sick 
persons, who, by leaving it in a state of high perspira- 



BATH LIFE AND BATH RULES. 33 

tion, as it is usually the case, expose themselves to 
the danger of catching a severe cold. The same can 
be said of the dancing. To remain several hours in 
an over-heated dancing-room, whose air is impreg- 
nated with dust, and with the exhalations of a large 
crowd of dancers, is not beneficial to patients, be they 
anaemic young girls who are longing for some better 
blood and red cheeks, or asthmatic gentlemen greedy 
of an abundance of fresh air, or hysterical ladies with 
a deranged nervous system. It is fresh, pure air, 
which they all constantly need, day and night ; while 
all crowded, ill-ventilated, and over-heated rooms are 
noxious and insalubrious. 

Finally, I should like to speak of the company 
patients should select during their sojourn at the spa, 
a subject really not so unimportant as many are apt 
to think. Pleasant and cheerful company has a great 
influence on the mind of the patient, it makes him feel 
livelier and happier ; and it is a fact, that animated 
and hopeful persons have a greater chance of recovery 
than those of a hypochondriacal disposition and a 
depressed mind. Single persons often feel lonesome 
and uneasy among the crowd of strangers they find at 
the large spas ; especially do Englishmen and k Ameri- 
cans who are unacquainted with the German language, 
find it very difficult to pick out some suitable com- 
panions. Those who speak German have a wider 
range of selecting proper company, and will easily 
find some congenial persons with whom they can 
harmonize during the short time of their sojourn. 
Do not associate with patients who entertain you with 
long stories of their own complaints, or of similar 

D 



34 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

ailments of their relatives up to the tenth or fifteenth 
generation ; nor with those who give you detailed 
accounts of innumerable cases exactly like yours, 
which have not been cured at the spa, and had ended 
fatally. Such melancholy company is of no advantage 
to you. Try to find one of those merry, jovial, well 
educated persons who are in the habit of frequenting 
all the large watering places by the hundred, always 
prepared and eager for a spirited, interesting conversa- 
tion which will animate and enliven you. Avoid 
speaking of business and its troubles, and turn all 
your attention exclusively to one point, viz., to find 
out the best way of spending time and money in a 
pleasant and cheerful manner — as a merry, contented 
mind contributes a great deal to the success of the 
treatment. 

At some baths the drinking is the principal object 
of the treatment, at others it is the bathing ; if both 
are practised, the bath is usually postponed until 
after breakfast. 

In order to get a bath at a convenient time, every 
patient should give notice early in the morning on 
the day he wishes to bathe, or rather the day before, 
taking care that his name be booked at the office 
of the bath direction, otherwise he may not get a 
bath until late in the afternoon, or even one at all. 
Places of great reputation, as Karlsbad, Teplitz, 
Gastein, &c, are so crowded in the height of the 
season, that patients must make arrangements for 
their baths several days in advance. There are many 
patients who prefer to bathe early in the morning, 
when the stomach is empty. This rule may be a 



BATH LIFE AND BATH RULES. 35 

good one for strong persons ; but old and debilitated 
persons, or those already fatigued by their morning 
task of drinking and promenading, should not bathe 
without having taken a light breakfast ; attacks of 
vertigo, nausea, or fainting, often seize those who 
neglect this precaution. At all events, the best time 
for taking a bath is about an hour after breakfast, the 
hours from 9 to 12 A.M. being the most convenient. 
Those who are obliged to bathe in the afternoon 
should wait at least fully three hours after dinner. If 
possible, they should bathe regularly at the same 
hour every day, and all mental and bodily excitement 
must be carefully avoided. Therefore, extensive walks 
should not be undertaken before the bath ; they are 
fatiguing, and might induce you, when the time for 
bathing approaches, to hurry, and thereby excite 
yourself. Nothing is more dangerous than to go into 
a warm bath with a quickened pulse and an over- 
heated circulation of the blood, which easily results in 
congestion of the brain, and even apoplexy. 

The temperature of the bath must be determined by 
the bath physician ; it varies according to the nature 
of the disease and the constitution of the patient. 
Anaemic and old persons can endure a higher tempe- 
rature than plethoric and young ones. Those afflicted 
with lung or heart diseases should not take hot baths. 
The bath attendants being often not very particular 
about the temperature when preparing the bath, it is 
always expedient to examine it by the thermometer, 
and if not correct, to secure the proper temperature 
by admitting the necessary quantity of hot or cold 
water. 

D 2 



36 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS 

The duration of the bath must likewise be deter- 
mined by the bath physician ; the chemical composi- 
tion of the water, the age and constitution of the 
patient, and the nature of the disease, are the points 
to be taken into consideration. In the beginning of a 
bath course, twenty or twenty-five minutes are con- 
sidered a sufficient time for a bath, afterwards thirty 
or forty-five minutes are allowed, but very rarely is 
the time extended to one hour. The only place on 
the continent where baths of longer duration are 
taken is Leuk, in Switzerland, where the patients 
remain several hours in the common baths, con- 
versing, chatting, playing cards, &c. Ladies and 
gentlemen bathe here together ; but, as I have already 
remarked in a former chapter, such a practice is not 
desirable, as the bathers are obliged to wear long 
bathing-gowns, which prevent the mineral waters 
from coming in close contact with the skin. Single 
baths are, therefore, preferable ; or where large com- 
mon swimming baths exist, they should be made more 
efficient by having separate hours for ladies and 
gentlemen respectively, in which case the long bathing 
dresses could be replaced by some other and more 
simple costume. 

After the bath the patient should rub himself until 
perfectly dry, dress quickly, and repair to the reception- 
room, to rest there for a short time. If the weather is 
warm and pleasant, a short walk may then be taken ; 
but if moist and damp, it is better to go home 
and rest a short while. Warm clothing is always 
to be cared for, the skin being very sensitive after the 
bath. Persons subject to congestions of the brain 



BATH LIFE AND BATH RULES. 37 

should keep a cold wet towel on their heads, as long 
as they remain in the bath ; for these as well as for 
debilitated or nervous patients, it is advisable not to 
bathe without having an attendant at hand to assist 
them in case of need. Patients should also abstain 
from sleeping in the bath, the temptation therefore 
being greatly increased by the soothing influence of 
the warm water on the nerves. A profuse perspiration 
after the bath is often very advantageous to a certain 
class of patients, especially to those affected with 
rheumatism, gout, secondary syphilis, &c. : bathers can 
easily produce perspiration by going home soon after 
the bath and covering themselves with a heavy 
blanket, in which they should remain for one or two 
hours. Ladies should not take hot baths during preg- 
nancy and certain periodical indispositions. Haemor- 
rhages of any kind always forbid the use of hot baths. 
The number of baths to be taken depends on the 
effect which they produce on the disease, and the 
constitution of the patient, the bath doctor being the 
competent person to decide this important question. 
In some cases the beneficial effect is very soon and 
strikingly manifested ; in others it is hardly noticed 
during the whole bath course. In all watering places 
the regular course consists of twenty-one baths. It is hard 
to tell what has led to such an arbitrary and irrational 
rule, as it is quite impossible for a physician, no matter 
what remedy he might apply, to tell the patient before- 
hand how long it will take before the desired effect 
can be obtained. Still this rule yet exists, and many 
bath doctors adhere to it. The majority of cases 
treated by them being chronic, and generally of long 



38 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

duration, it is evident that twenty-one baths will be insuf- 
ficient to effect a cure. How can patients,, suffering for 
many years from severe attacks of rheumatism, gout, 
nervous head-ache, &c, reasonably expect to be freed 
from their ailments by a course of twenty-one baths ? 
An intelligent patient, not believing in this irrational 
dogma, therefore will not despair when he sees no 
favourable result after having taken that ominous 
number of baths, but will go on with the treatment, 
and persevere as long as his judicious medical friend 
shall advise him to do so, and his power of endurance 
will permit. 

To take more than one bath a day is of no 
benefit ; for weak persons one bath every other day 
is often quite sufficient. The bathing-rooms should 
be high, airy and well ventilated ; and every bather on 
entering a room which has been used a short time 
before, should satisfy himself that fresh, pure air has 
been admitted. This is often neglected when the 
number of bathers is very large. When the weather 
is damp and cold, it is very agreeable to have the 
room heated, and the sheets and towels with which 
the patient is to rub himself, warmed by little copper 
or tin appliances, provided for at every watering 
place. 

To postpone the bath on account of unfavourable 
weather is hardly necessary, every patient being able 
to protect himself against the inclemency of the 
tremperature by proper clothing, or by riding in a 
carriage to the bathing-house. 

After a number of baths have been taken, a rash, 
called the Badfriesel, frequently appears on the skin, 



BATH LIFE AND BATH RULES. 39 

especially if the water is heavily impregnated with salt. 
Formerly this rash was considered a critical symptom, 
and the first sign of improvement, and was as such 
eagerly looked for both by patients and doctors. 
However, it is nothing else than an irritation of the 
skin, caused by the salts contained in the mineral 
water, and has no essential effect on the disease ; but 
in order to avoid the increase of this unpleasant irrita- 
tion, the baths must be omitted for a few days. A 
large number of patients leave the spas entirely 
cured without having experienced the slightest attack 
of the Badfriesel; while others, who had been 
extremely tormented by severe eruptions, do not 
notice any improvement of their maladies. " The 
time has passed," says Dr. Valentiner, " when patient 
and doctor rivalled in their delight over an eruption 
on the skin, after the use of the baths : that beautiful 
time of the illusory bath crisis is passed, since we 
have come to regard these eruptions as mostly very 
unwelcome consequences of an irritation produced by 
the baths." 

Another affection often produced by drinking or 
bathing, is the so-called Brunnenfieber (well-fever) ; a 
heavy head, restless nights, chills alternating with 
heat and followed by perspiration, excited pulse, are 
the symptons. Moreover, patients begin to dislike 
the water, the appetite, often increased by the treat- 
ment, fails, and the evacuation of the bowels becomes 
irregular. The system is believed to be saturated by 
the water, and this saturation is considered the cause 
of this febrile affection, which rapidly passes away if 
the treatment is interrupted for a few days. 



40 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

The duration of the treatment by mineral springs 
cannot be determined beforehand ; it depends on the 
nature of the disease, and the susceptibility of the 
patient for the action of the mineral water. Some 
drink and digest it very well, others soon become dis- 
gusted with it, and are obliged to stop drinking ; on 
some the waters re-act very rapidly and effectively, 
while others, during the whole time of the treatment, 
hardly experience any effect at all ; some very soon 
have the sensation of being saturated by the water, 
others can take it for months without noticing any 
uneasiness. These and other considerations will guide 
the bath doctor when consulted by the patient, who 
on his own responsibility should neither alter, nor 
shorten, nor prolong the cure. 

It is the practice of many bath physicians when 
commencing the treatment to limit it beforehand to 
four weeks ; perhaps the experience that the Brunnen- 
fieber (well-fever) often appears at this time has led 
to that practice, which nevertheless is wholly arbitrary. 
No physician can ever pretend to be able to define 
the time necessary for the cure of a chronic disease, 
without running the risk of being considered a humbug. 
The principal rule for the invalid is to be patient, and 
for the bath doctor not to yield to the impatience of 
his patient. I especially recommend to Americans, 
who are obliged to undertake such a long and expen- 
sive voyage in order to reach a European spa, not to 
break off the bath course too early; a few weeks 
more devoted to the goddess of the fountain will 
often prove of considerable benefit. It is generally 
known that hardly any disease of long standing can 



BATH LIFE AND BATH RULES. 4 1 

be permanently cured by a medication of four or five 
weeks ; why should we expect that such a miracle can 
be performed by the drinking of a mineral water, 
however powerful it be? If a patient is tired, after 
having passed through a course of four weeks without 
having yet obtained the desired result, he may stop 
for a month or two, and then recommence another 
course. A good many patients are in the habit of 
doing this ; and I should advise Americans who do 
not intend to visit Europe a second time, to follow 
the same method. I often had the opportunity, during 
my stay at Karlsbad and other spas, to impress upon 
the minds of visitors, especially Americans, the neces- 
sity of remaining long enough to give the spring a 
fair chance of showing its effectiveness ; and I had the 
satisfaction of seeing them pleased with the result. 
I have also met quite a number of English and 
Americans who had been visiting the spas for several 
years in succession in order to become permanently 
cured, which is the proper way of doing, because, if 
you come to the conclusion that the first trial has 
done you good, and you have full confidence in the 
efficacy of the spa, I positively advise you to try it 
again. No sacrifice is too great for the sake of health 
and happiness ! 



42 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 



CHAPTER VI. 

THE DIET DURING THE BATH CURE. 

A GREAT many stringent rules have been laid down 
in regard to the diet during the bath treatment, and a 
great deal of redtapeism has for a long time prevailed 
in those things. Undoubtedly a proper diet is of 
greater importance than most of the patients are 
aware of. Every intelligent physician knows that in 
the treatment of chronic diseases by dietetic advice 
he often obtains far better results than by large 
bottles of medicine. But how few of our patients are 
willing to submit to the rigid dietetic rules of the 
family physician ! Nevertheless, strange as it may 
appear, as soon as they are away from home, and 
under the care of a bath doctor, they usually yield to 
his dictates, by giving up their favourite dishes and 
drinks. For every chronic disease a special diet 
must be ordained; and no intelligent patient will 
indulge in a large quantity of indigestible food so 
long as he is obliged to take medicine. We should, 
therefore, expect to see this rule strictly adhered to 
by those who, while undergoing a bath treatment, fill 
their stomach every morning with a considerable 
quantity of mineral water. But a great many have 
neither the common sense nor the energy to withstand 



THE DIET DURING THE BATH CURE. 43 

the allurements of the stomach ; and I believe this 
undeniable fact has contributed a great deal to es- 
tablish so many rigid rules for patients at watering 
places, which we to-day consider irrational or im- 
material. The old bath doctors were very well aware 
that the more the whole bath life was surrounded with 
a mysterious nimbus, the greater would be the in- 
fluence they could exert on the minds of their patients, 
and the less would be the opposition made to their 
directions, even by those who at home would not at 
all follow the conscientious advice of their family 
physician. We should not too severely criticize 
our old colleagues for ostracizing many articles of 
food, perfectly harmless when taken in moderate 
quantity. They knew the human heart, and the 
carelessness of the patients in regard to diet, and 
therefore considered it safer and better for the success 
of the treatment, and the welfare of their proteges, to 
submit them for a short time to a rather despotic 
dietetic regimen. It is really astonishing how often 
the simplest dietetic rules are violated by injudicious 
patients. For instance, every person of common 
intelligence is well aware that no heavy meal should 
be taken shortly before going to bed ; nevertheless, 
at all the watering places those restaurants which have 
the reputation of having a good table are filled until 
late in the evening with patients, who overload the 
stomach with all kinds of food. Even in Karlsbad, 
which has the most powerful mineral water in 
Europe, and where the dietetic rules are more rigidly 
observed than at any other watering place, hundreds 
of patients indulge in opulent suppers. We should, 



44 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

therefore, not blame those medical attendants who, 
profiting by the experience of many years' practice, 
are apparently 1 a little severe in regard to the diet. 
A restricted, scanty food at all events will hardly ever 
do much harm, while injudicious eating and drinking 
cause incalculable injury to many patients during 
every season. From my own experience, I must 
rather confess that the bath physicians nowadays 
often seem to pay too little attention to the subject of 
diet, neglecting to give their patients the proper 
advice, and to impress upon their mind the necessity 
of submitting to a proper dietetic regimen. 

Although it is very difficult to lay down general 
rules on bath diet, as every patient and every mineral 
spring require a different regimen, I shall nevertheless 
endeavour to do so, for the information of those who 
are desirous of receiving some general knowledge on 
this important matter. However, the bath doctor 
must give special directions in each individual case, 
according to the nature of the disease, the age and 
constitution of the patient ; and last, but not least, 
in conformity with the chemical constituents of the 
water. It is obvious that patients affected with 
disorders of the digestive organs — and this class em- 
braces perhaps the majority of all those who visit 
watering places — must be subjected to a quite different, 
and generally far more rigid diet, than others who are 
exhausted by loss of blood, or debilitated by defective 
nutrition. For the latter, a nourishing, invigorating 
diet is indicated ; while corpulent persons, addicted to 
a luxurious life, should be enjoined to give up their 
opulent table for some time, and to live on frugal 



THE DIET DURING THE BATH CURE. 45 

rations, in order to prevent any further accumulation 
of superfluous fat. 

The general rule for all patients, without exception, 
is to adhere to a simple, frugal, and easily digestible 
diet ; every patient taking medicine should follow 
this rule, and so much more should those do so who 
are under the influence of mineral waters, all of which 
tax the digestive organs in a high degree. Patients 
should bear in mind that they do not derive any 
benefit from the quantity of food they consume, but 
from the quantity they digest and assimilate. Their 
meals should consist of a few well-prepared, palatable 
dishes ; all luxuries of a grand table in the shape of 
rich preserves, desserts, &c, being excluded, as injurious 
to the digestion, and incongruous with the mineral 
water. The early rising and constant exercise in the 
open air increase the appetite, and induce many 
patients to eat more than they are able to digest ; for 
this very reason they should abstain from table d' hote 
dinners, as already explained in the preceding chapter. 
A strict regularity in the time of taking meals is also 
very essential, and beneficial for the digestion ; how- 
ever, patients are only too often induced to break this 
rule by their frequent visits to coffee-houses and places 
of amusement when promenading or on excursions. 
But they can easily avoid all irregularities by judi- 
ciously disposing of the time employed for such visits. 
In order to be sure of not overloading the stomach, 
they would do well to stop eating before their appetite 
is fully appeased, without, however, going to the 
other extreme of starving, which many imprudent 
patients consider indispensable for the success of the 



46 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

cure. The intelligent reader, understanding the true 
meaning of these rules, will steer safely between the 
Scyllaof intemperance and the Charybdis of abstinence. 

For a long time certain articles of food — as butter, 
fat, salads, fruit, even coffee and tea — were interdicted 
as incompatible with the chemical constituents of the 
mineral waters. Our knowledge of their chemical 
action having been greatly increased, the medical 
verdict against the use of these articles has been con- 
siderably modified. Fruit was proscribed, because the 
organic acids contained therein were believed to 
decompose the carbonate of soda, which is the 
principal constituent of the alkaline waters ; for the 
same reason the verdict against salads was given. At 
present, we very well know that those acids do not 
counteract the chemical action of these waters, and 
should not on that account object to the moderate use 
of fruit or salads ; but experience has sufficiently 
demonstrated that these articles of food, when taken 
during a bath course, have proved injurious by pro- 
ducing colic, diarrhoea, vomiting, &c. ; therefore the bath 
physicians are fully justified in their unanimous veto 
of fruit and salads. 

Fat and butter were also supposed to counteract 
the chemical action of the alkaline waters, but this is 
not the case. Nevertheless, fatty articles of food must 
be avoided on account of their indigestibility. The 
fat of meat, fish, lobsters, ducks, geese, are hard to 
digest by a stomach weakened by large draughts of 
mineral water. Moreover, there are a great many 
patients who should abstain from all fat and butter, 
these articles being especially inimical to their 



THE DIET DURING THE BATH CURE. 47 

recovery, as for instance those affected with enlarge- 
ment of the liver, gall-stones, obesity, &c. To others, 
as scrofulous or anaemic persons, the moderate use 
of butter or fat is rather beneficial. 

I shall now briefly review the various articles of food, 
suitable or not suitable to patients under bath treatment. 
They are allowed to eat beef, veal, lamb, venison, 
pigeon, chicken, trout, and herring ; while pork, goose, 
duck, smoked beef, corned beef, raw ham, sausage, 
eel, salmon, carp, crabs, lobsters, and oysters are for- 
bidden. Rich gravy, profusely poured over the meat 
or poultry, as usually served at the German restau- 
rants, and mostly prepared with lard or butter of 
inferior quality, is injurious, and should be banished 
from the table of patients. Pies and rich puddings 
must also be crossed from the bill of fare ; and last, 
but not least, even ice-cream is strictly forbidden ! 
Carrots, asparagus, cauliflower, spinage, young green 
peas, are good for patients ; while cabbage, turnips, 
beans, which produce flatulency, are on the proscription 
list. Rice, mashed potato, barley, sago, when taken 
in moderate quantity, will do no harm ; almonds, nuts, 
raisins, the favourite dessert at tables d'hote, are 
indigestible. All vegetables should be well prepared ; 
but without much butter or fat. 

All kinds of liqueurs are strictly forbidden ; one or 
two glasses of a light French or Austrian wine may be 
taken with advantage. If there is no contraindica- 
tion on account of the nature of the disease or the 
constitution of the patient, a glass of good, light beer 
will often prove beneficial, especially to weak persons ; 
but nervous, irritable persons should not take either 



48 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

wine or beer, and not even tea in the evening. The 
practice of drinking a large quantity of soda or seltzer 
water at the meals prevails at most of the watering 
places, though it is not commendable. All waters 
containing carbonic acid expand the stomach and 
easily impair the digestive power ; therefore at meals 
they should be taken only in moderate quantity, and 
mixed with wine. 

Three meals a day are the rule during the bath 
course — breakfast, dinner, and supper ; weak persons 
are sometimes advised to eat oftener, but only a small 
quantity at a time. For breakfast — tea, coffee, cocoa, 
milk, or chocolate may be taken, with one or two rolls, 
and one or two soft-boiled eggs; a plate of soup, taken a 
little later, is often beneficial. For dinner — soup, meat, 
and some light vegetables, are quite sufficient ; those 
who are in the habit of taking a cup of coffee (without 
milk) directly after dinner, may do so. In the even- 
ing, a scanty supper should be taken, which can easily 
be digested before the next morning, thus leaving the 
stomach empty, and well prepared to receive the usual 
supply of mineral water. A plate of soup, or two soft- 
boiled eggs with a roll, or a small portion of meat, 
compose a good supper for an invalid. 

There are many persons who cannot sleep without 
having taken a glass of wine or beer ; in such cases 
a deviation from the general rule forbidding those 
drinks in the evening, is allowed. " Even the most 
general and approved rules," says Braun, "permit 
individual exceptions, as for instance the verdict 
against late and copious suppers, as there are many 
patients, especially those suffering from nervous 



THE DIET DURING THE BATH CURE. 49 

affections, who cannot sleep unless they go to bed 
while the process of digestion is going on, and others 
who cannot rest at all without having taken a sedative 
in the shape of a glass of wine or beer. Many 
physicians, always ready to give a dose of morphine 
to allay a restless patient, zealously object, because 
it is the custom to do so, to a glass of wine, though 
it is a more wholesome soporific." 

Formerly patients who intended to go to a watering 
place were obliged to undergo a preparatory course of 
treatment. Purgatives, emetics, even venisections, 
were freely used, until the unfortunate victims were so 
much reduced in strength, and their digestion was so 
impaired, that after their arrival at the mineral spring 
they could not commence the bath course until the 
digestion had sufficiently improved by proper treatment. 
This practice has been abandoned by all intelligent 
practitioners, who simply advise their patients to be 
moderate in food and drink, and particularly not to 
gratify their greed for favourite dishes and drinks — a 
habit practised by many patients just before com- 
mencing the bath course. 

A far greater importance is generally attributed by 
the bath physicians to the so-called after cure. It is 
evident, and every intelligent reader will coincide with 
me, that even the most successful treatment will be 
counteracted, and perhaps entirely frustrated, if the 
patient, after leaving the spa, soon relapses into his 
former irregular and often extravagant mode of living. 
What benefit can be drived from a cure of four or five 
weeks' duration, in however an energetic and efficacious 
manner it may have been carried on, if it is not 

E 



50 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

followed up, and completed afterwards, by a corre- 
sponding hygienic regimen ? I venture to aver, that 
the majority of patients, after having cheerfully sub- 
mitted for several weeks to the rigorous rules of the 
bath diet, as soon as the last cup of mineral water is 
drunk and the treatment brought to the eagerly desired 
end, joyfully throw off all restraint. In order to make 
up for the lost time, they ardently relish the favourite 
dishes, puddings, fruits, &c, unmindful of the fact that 
the digestive organs, weakened by the use of powerful 
mineral waters, are not prepared to receive an un- 
limited supply of indigestible victuals. By such a 
practice they often spoil the beneficial effects of the 
bath course. These effects, some times not at all 
visible during the sojourn at the spa, often appear 
some weeks, and even months, afterwards. We can 
not presume these after-effects to be imaginary, as 
many dissatisfied patients, who have finished the 
regular bath course without seeing an immediate 
success, are very apt to believe. The experience of 
physicians and patients has demonstrated, that such 
after-effects really take place, if not counteracted by 
an unreasonable regimen after the termination of the 
treatment. To obtain the desired result, it is ab- 
solutely necessary for patients, after having left the 
spa, to keep up the usual bath diet for several weeks 
longer, and to return gradually to their accustomed 
food. And in order to effect a permanent cure, they 
should for a long time regulate their diet in a rational 
manner according to the nature of their disease. This 
is the true and effectual after-cure of an intelligent 
patient. I purposely urge this point, as I have seen 



THE DIET DURING THE BATH CURE. 5 1 

so many patients, immediately after having finished 
a bath treatment, rush to the enjoyment of an 
Epicurean table. 

Moreover, it is not expedient to return home from 
the spa too early, and to resume business, with all its 
cares and troubles, its labours and exertions. The 
system usually being relaxed, and even exhausted, 
and the mind to a certain degree in a state of excite- 
ment, after a protracted and energetic treatment, it 
is easily understood that a time of entire rest and 
recreation should precede the return to active life. 
It is therefore highly advantageous to sojourn for 
several weeks at a pleasant, healthful station, either 
on the seashore or in a mountain region. The 
numerous health resorts of Germany and Switzerland, 
mostly located on some elevated mountain range, 
afford plenty of opportunity to those who desire to- 
spend a few weeks in a quiet, reasonable manner, 
enjoying all the comforts of life, fresh, pure air, and 
the company of that refined class of society which 
usually congregates at these places. 

Many physicians advise their patients to undergo, 
as an aftercure, a second treatment at a chaly- 
beate spring, or to repair to a sea bath, in order to 
invigorate and strengthen the system. But, where- 
ever you intend to go, do not do so in haste ; travel 
slowly, comfortably, by short stages, and do not make 
night trips, there being too much discomfort and 
exhaustion connected with them. 

Many patients, desirous of spending their time in 
a useful manner, are in the habit of visiting, soon 
after a bath course, some of the principal cities of 

E 2 



52 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

the continent, running through the art galleries from 
morning till evening, gazing at pictures and statues, 
or perambulating dusty streets in search of curiosities 
and antiquities ; others hasten to the alpine regions, 
climb the highest peaks, and return home proud and 
elated over their great achievements, unaware that 
they have thereby almost annihilated the beneficial 
results of the bath course. The bath physicians 
unanimously condemn these practices, especially all 
exerting trips through mountain regions ; while mode- 
rate exercise is just as earnestly recommended as 
during the bath treatment. 

Patients who have taken a number of warm baths 
are very apt to take cold, the skin having become 
very sensitive for even the slightest change of tempe- 
rature ; they should therefore turn their special atten- 
tion to their clothing, at all times wear warm flannel 
underclothing, and avoid all exposure, especially to 
the cool night air or the moist morning dew. 



WATER AND AIR. 53 



CHAPTER VII. 

WATER AND AIR. 

WATER and air are such important factors in our life, 
and have been and still will be so often mentioned 
in this treatise, that the reader may wish to gain a 
little more information on this subject. Let us 
therefore enter into a brief discussion on the physio- 
logical effects of common water and mineral water, 
used internally and externally, adding a few remarks 
on mountain and sea air. 



1. Internal use of Water. 

If you drink a large quantity of water which is 
not instantly absorbed, you feel oppressed as by a 
heavy weight. But absorption generally commences 
as soon as the water is taken, and if the stomach is 
empty, goes on very rapidly. The water is absorbed 
by the veins of the stomach and the intestines, but 
more by those of the former ; the secretion of the 
saliva, bile, and urine, is increased. The maximum 
of the absorption is reached about two or three hours 
after the water has been drunk, the excretion by the 
kidneys being most abundant at that time. Water 
containing salts is not so rapidly absorbed as common 



54 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

water ; the less salt it contains, the more easily it is 
absorbed. The quantity of water which the stomach 
is able to receive and absorb is immense ; persons 
are reported to have swallowed 200, and even 300, 
ounces of mineral water every morning for several 
weeks. The quantity of water in the blood varies 
according to the amount of water drunk and absorbed. 
A large quantity produces an expansion of the blood- 
vessels, and an increase in the secretions of the skin, 
of the intestinal canal, and especially of the kidneys, 
which carry off the largest portion of the water. 
Much water-drinking diminishes the specific gravity 
of the urine, makes it thinner, and increases the 
quantity of the urine. The perspiration is also 
thereby increased, but this increase varies much, ac- 
cording to the temperature of the water and the air, 
and the active exercise of the person. Water, if 
properly administered, augments all the secretions 
of the system, and facilitates the change of tissue 
and the renovation of the body. Water of a high 
temperature is more easily absorbed and is more effi- 
cacious than water of the usual cool temperature. 
Too much waterrdrinking impedes the digestion, 
disturbs the secretions, and often produces dropsy. 

Water taken in large quantity expands the stomach, 
the intestines, the blood-vessels, the biliary passages, 
and the bladder; it liquefies the contents of the 
intestinal canal, and thereby promotes the evacuation ; 
it facilitates the circulation of the blood in the smaller 
vessels of the liver, lungs, and spleen, thereby pre- 
venting or relieving congestions of these organs. The 
expansion of the biliary passages and the bladder by 



WATER AND AIR. 55 

water, greatly helps to facilitate the passage of gall- 
stones and gravel. 

Water, by diluting the contents of the stomach and 
intestines, is of great benefit in the treatment of 
poisoning ; by its solvent power it promotes the 
digestion, improves the assimilation, and increases 
the change of tissue. Some practitioners, believing 
that water by its solvent power could remove the 
lithic acid from the system and thus cure gout, were 
wont to order their patients to swallow enormous 
quantities ; but the result being unsatisfactory, this 
treatment has been given up. 

Cold water is a stimulant, and as such highly bene- 
ficial in the treatment of atony of the stomach and the 
intestines, and of defective digestion caused thereby ; 
it also diminishes the irritability of these organs. 

Warm water is used with great benefit in many 
painful affections of the stomach and the intestinal 
canal ; it fluidizes its contents more thoroughly than 
cold water, augments the secretions, and promotes 
the absorption of morbid deposits. 

If mineral waters are drunk, the larger portion of 
them is also absorbed by the stomach ; especially are 
the gases which they contain rapidly carried into the 
blood, while the absorption of the mineral consti- 
tuents is somewhat retarded. High temperature of 
the water, and active exercise, favour the absorption. 
Another portion of the mineral water passes through 
the alimentary canal, where it is partly absorbed, the 
rest being eliminated by the action of the bowels. 

Mineral waters act as stimulants on the stomach, 
partly by their low temperature, partly by the carbonic 



56 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

acid contained in most of them ; by some of their 
mineral constituents, especially the carbonates of soda 
and magnesia, they also neutralize the acids of the 
stomach. Very important is the purgative action 
produced by waters containing sulphates of soda and 
magnesia, which stimulate the mucous membrane of 
the intestinal canal, thereby increasing the peristaltic 
action of the bowels. Other mineral waters, especially 
those containing carbonate of lime, have a tendency 
to produce constipation, and are useful in the treat- 
ment of chronic diarrhoea. Carbonic acid, the most 
important element of the majority of all mineral 
waters, is partly removed from the stomach by eruc- 
tation, partly absorbed ; its action on the nervous 
system is similar to that produced by the sparkling 
wine. Lightness of the head, followed by drowsiness, 
is the symptom, which disappears if the quantity of 
the carbonic acid is diminished by adding warm water 
or milk to the mineral water. Carbonated water, 
taken in moderate quantity, is refreshing, and acts as 
a pleasant stimulant on the stomach. 



2. External use of Water. 

Externally, water is mainly used in the form of 
baths. The effect of a bath depends on the tempera- 
ture of the water. If the latter is high, say about 102 
to no°, the temperature of the body is increased 
about 3 ; if the temperature of the bath is as low 
as 66°, it reduces the temperature of the body about 
2° within ten or fifteen minutes. A temperature 
of 88° to 95 is considered indifferent, as it does 



WATER AND AIR. 57 



not change the temperature of the system, and 
can be indulged in for a considerable time without 
any harm. 

The cold bath reduces the frequency of the pulse, 
produces contraction of the capillary vessels of the 
skin, which becomes cool and pale, and a flow of the 
blood to the internal organs, viz., to the brain, lungs, 
kidneys, &c. But as reaction takes place, after a 
short while the skin becomes red, and the pulse 
normal, or even more frequent than before. The 
symptoms produced by the rush of blood to the 
internal 'organs, resulting from the action of the cold 
water, are these : dizziness in the head, tremor of the 
limbs, oppression of the chest, and a small pulse. 

Hot baths accelerate the circulation of the blood, 
produce a rush of blood to the surface of the skin, 
and an expansion of the whole quantity of blood 
contained in the blood-vessels ; thereby causing con- 
gestions and profuse perspiration. Diseases occasioned 
by suppressed perspiration and morbid organizations 
are benefited by these baths. The stimulative effect 
produced by the high temperature of the hot water 
often proves very beneficial in cases of paralysis. The 
high temperature is probably the sole efficacious 
element of the mud, peat, and sand baths which are 
so much patronized on the continent both by phy- 
sicians and patients, although the heavy weight of 
these substances may also contribute a good deal to 
their beneficial action in some affections, as enlarge- 
ment of the liver, thickening of joints, &c. 

Indifferent baths, which have a temperature of 88° to 
95°, do not have any material physiological effect on 



58 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

the circulation of the blood, or on the nervous system. 
But the experience of many years has proved them 
highly beneficial in cases of nervous irritability, 
neuralgia, sleeplessness, hysterical spasms, &c. 

Very young persons, and old ones, not being strong 
enough to bring on a speedy reaction, should not 
take cold baths ; nor should decrepid persons, or 
invalids affected with severe disorders of the digestive 
organs or with a high degree of nervous irritability, 
submit to a cold water treatment. Diseases of the 
heart, congestions and haemorrhages of the lungs, 
apoplectic dispositions, are also contra-indications to 
the use of cold water. 

Water charged with carbonic acid produces a very 
pleasant prickling or burning sensation on the surface 
of the skin, a flow of blood to the latter, and redness 
and fulness of the pulse ; therefore, it seems that this 
gas, when used externally, acts as a stimulant on the 
skin. Some salts, as chloride of soda, chloride of 
lime, contained in many mineral waters, also produce 
a stimulating effect on the peripheral nerves. The 
stimulative action of the carbonic acid is quicker, but 
that of the salts lasts longer ; these, after having pene- 
trated the epidermis, seem to remain longer in the skin, 
and thereby to produce the stimulation of the nerves. 

Alkaline waters have no more effect on the system 
than common water baths, their salts not being 
absorbed by the skin ; they mollify the epidermis, 
thereby enabling us to remove impurities accumulated 
on the skin, and they prevent the pores from being 
obstructed by the secretions of the sebaceous and 
sweat glands. 



WATER AND AIR. 59 

The general effects of strong mineral water baths may 
thus be summed up: they increase the circulation of the 
blood in the skin, promote its nutrition, augment the 
secretions, and often produce eruptions on the skin. 

A few words may be added on the important and 
highly interesting question, whether the mineral 
constituents of the mineral waters are absorbed by 
the skin or not. For a long time it had been taken 
for granted that they were absorbed ; and patients, as 
well as physicians, were accustomed to attribute the 
beneficial effects of the baths to that absorption, an 
opinion which even nowadays prevails among the 
visitors of all the watering places on the globe ; 
especially those who take iron baths are convinced 
that the invigorating effect experienced by their use 
is the result of the absorption of the iron by the 
capillary vessels of the skin. But this is not the 
case. At present, the best authors on balneology 
coincide that absorption by the skin does not take place ; 
that the sebaceous secretion of the latter is an ab- 
solute obstacle to the absorption of any mineral con- 
stituent of the mineral waters ; and that absorption 
can only be facilitated by removing the sebaceous 
secretion by means of scraping, soaping, high tempe- 
rature, long duration, and frequent repetitions of 
baths. 

There seems to be no doubt that all the benefit 
actually derived from the use of mineral water baths 
is a result of stimulation of the peripheral nerves, 
produced by their mineral constituents and their 
temperature, whereby the activity of the skin is in- 
creased, the nutrition of the system improved, the 



60 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

circulation of the blood accelerated, and the transfor- 
mation and renewal of tissue materially promoted. 

3. Mountain and Sea Air. 

In ancient, as well as in modern times, the popular 
idea has always prevailed, that country air, and 
especially mountain and sea air, was purer and more 
salubrious than city air. Greeks and Romans repaired 
to their summer residences in the country and on the 
sea-shore as soon as the summer heat made them feel 
uncomfortable in their elegant city mansions. Their 
sea-baths were notorious for the elegance, extrava- 
gance, and licentiousness of the fashionable society. 
The temples of their gods, to which invalids often 
resorted in order to restore their health, were mostly 
situated in elevated, salubrious regions. 

There is, indeed, a great difference between country 
and city air — a greater one than most people imagine. 
Our modern, over-crowded cities — filled with the 
smoke, coal-dust, and refuse of innumerable factories, 
warehouses, and slaughter-houses, the air impregnated 
with the impurities of gas-houses and oil-refineries, of 
dusty streets and dumping grounds — are rather hot- 
beds of all kinds of diseases than suitable domiciles 
for a sound and vigorous population. Sufficient 
circulation, of air, absolutely necessary for its purity 
and healthfulness, is impeded by the height of large 
warehouses, churches, tenement houses, and other 
edifices. It has been demonstrated by M. Pasteur, 
a celebrated French savant, and by other able 
scientists, thatcity air is impregnated with innumerable 



WATER AND AIR. 6l 

microscopical organisms, germs, which are the cause 
of the putrefaction and decay of organic substances, 
and probably of many, if not of all, contagious 
diseases. " It has been established beyond all doubt," 
says one of these scientists, " that these organic sub- 
stances, be they gaseous products of putrefactive 
processes in the animal or vegetable kingdom, or 
vegetable germs, or microscopical animalcules floating 
in the atmosphere, do reach the lungs in the current 
of air inspired, and are there capable of doing great 
mischief." We may reasonably infer that city air, in 
consequence of the large congregation of people, and 
of the immense amount of all kinds of organic sub- 
stances accumulated in houses and streets, and of 
other deposits subject to easy decomposition, should 
be more infected with these atmospheric germs than 
country air, which is supposed to be comparatively 
free from them. The air of the large glacier in Swit- 
zerland called Mer-de-glace, was found entirely free 
from germs ; and this may be the case on all elevated 
points of 3000 feet and more. 

Country air contains a larger quantity of ozone. 
Ozone is modified oxygen ; it destroys foul gases 
emanating from decomposed organic matter. The 
more ozone the air contains, the purer and fresher it 
is. It is the purity of the country air which produces 
such a beneficial, vitalizing effect on invalids ; the 
feeling of delight and refreshment which they enjoy 
when inhaling the fresh, pure, bracing mountain air is 
intense, especially if they have been for any length of 
time confined to a close, ill-ventilated room. 

Mountain air is cooler than the air of the plains ; 



62 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

it is also thinner, the atmospheric pressure being 
diminished, and containing less oxygen. Therefore, 
when we take active exercise in the mountains our 
inspirations must naturally become deeper and more 
frequent, in order to inhale the necessary quantity of 
oxygen. The capacity of the lungs and the activity 
of the whole system being thereby increased, the 
assimilation and nutrition are improved. 

The changes of temperature are more sudden in the 
mountains, the currents of air are stronger and change 
more frequently than in the plains. The higher the 
elevation, the cooler and fresher, and the more bracing 
and invigorating, is the air ; and in the same propor- 
tion the evaporation of the body is increased. Active 
exercise in the mountains accelerates the action of the 
heart and lungs, increases the circulation of the blood 
and the perspiration, and improves the digestion and 
the change of tissue. 

Very striking is the effect of the Alpine climate on 
the deranged digestion. Its beneficial influence is 
soon experienced in the action of the stomach ; the 
appetite being already restored during the first days 
of residence in an elevated region, the stomach 
requires more food, and substances which formerly 
were not at all tolerated are quickly and thoroughly 
digested. By degrees the action of the intestines 
becomes more regular, diarrhoea and other disorders 
disappear, and obstructions of the liver, spleen, &c, 
are much relieved. Most apparent is the beneficial 
effect of mountain air in cases of nervous debility and 
irritability, and nervous prostration caused by over- 
strenuous mental labour. Persons broken down by 



WATER AND AIR. 63 

business troubles, or by professional strain on their 
mental capacities, wonderfully recuperate even after 
a brief stay in an alpine region ; appetite, sleep, and 
good-humour soon return, the muscular power in- 
creases, the abnormal nervous irritability disappears, 
and a sound, healthy exterior takes the place of the 
former sickly and decrepid appearance. The same 
beneficial influence is experienced by invalids who 
have been debilitated by malaria, wounds, or chronic 
diseases of any kind. 

Sea air is free from the dust and other impurities 
of land air, and contains a greater quantity of ozone. 
Its temperature is more equable — in summer generally 
lower, in winter somewhat higher than that of the 
interior. The atmospheric pressure and evaporation 
are also greater. Sea air contains a large amount of 
saline particles. It acts highly beneficially on the 
process of blood-making and on the nutrition, im- 
proves the digestion, and invigorates the nervous 
system. Bronchial catarrhs are much benefited by 
the inhalation of the sea air, while in tubercular 
affections of the lungs many medical authors consider 
sea air injurious. Asthmatic patients often derive 
great benefit from a protracted sojourn on the sea- 
shore ; sea air is also recommended in cases of 
anaemia, general atrophy, spinal irritations, neuralgia, 
rheumatism, and gout (Braun). Organic diseases of 
the stomach and the alimentary canal are not gene- 
rally benefited by the use of sea air. 



PART II. 

TOPOGRAPHICAL REVIEW OF THE WATERING 
PLACES. 



Introductory Remarks. 

In the second part of this guide I intend to give a 
topographical description of the principal watering 
places of Germany, Austria, and Switzerlaiid. The 
number of spas in these countries being really enor- 
mous, I shall mention only those which are of special 
ijiterest to English and Americans, either by their 
superior chemical qualities and curative effects, or by 
their great reputation and easy access. Places too 
remote to be easily reached, or without any special 
attraction, shall be omitted ; nor shall I describe the 
mineral springs of places like Friedrichshull, Piillna, 
&c, which cannot be styled spas, as their waters, 
though very powerful, are not drunk at the wells, 
but only exported. 

Every day, I might say, a new spring is discovered 
in some part of Central Europe ; its virtues are 
praised and extolled in newspapers and periodicals, 
as a panacea for all evils ; its comfortable arrange- 



INTRODUCTORY REMARKS. 65 

ments and low prices are conspicuously advertised, 
and its situation is described as a non plus ultra of 
beautiful scenery, purity of air, &c, &c. 

We shall confine ourselves to the description of 
those places which, by the experience of many years, 
have had their reputation established in regard to 
efficacy and superior arrangements. A little more 
space shall be devoted to grand spas., like Karlsbad, 
Baden-Baden, Kissingen, &c, they being unique, either 
by the efficacy of their waters, or by their excellent 
situation, or by the superiority of their arrangements 
and other attractions. Commencing with those in 
the north-westernly part of Germany, we shall pro- 
ceed to the others near the Rhine and in Middle 
Germany, concluding with those in South Germany ; 
the wells in the eastern part, viz. in Silesia, shall be 
briefly noticed. A similar course shall be pursued 
with the Austrian and Swiss baths. 

At each place the names of physicians and hotels, 
taken from the latest editions of travelling guides, 
especially Baedeker's, and medical almanacks, shall be 
given. However, I feel myself in duty bound to 
remark, that this shall not be looked upon as a recom- 
mendation of any of them ; it is intended to be nothing 
more or less than a gitide to aid those who arrive at a 
watering place as perfect strangers and totally un- 
acquainted with the locality. 

English and Americans should not believe that 
only the large, celebrated and fashionable watering 
places, frequented by vast numbers of their country- 
men, are the most preferable in regard to entertain- 
ment and social intercourse. This is not always the 

F 



66 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

case ; there are even in the remotest portions of the 
Styrian and Swiss alps a great many charming little 
spas, where they can spend their time very pleasantly, 
with less expense and perhaps with more benefit to 
their health. This wholly depends on the individual 
disposition of the patient. 

A topographical description of spas, in the manner 
in which I propose to give it, has to my knowledge, 
never before been attempted by any writer ; but though 
it may be a little monotonous, I rather believe that 
precisely in this manner the reader will soon and 
easily obtain a general knowledge of the position and 
arrangements of the principal spas. 

Their chemical composition and therapeutic action 
shall be discussed in the third part of this treatise. 



THE WATERING PLACES OF GERMANY. 6j 



CHAPTER I. 

THE WATERING PLACES OF GERMANY. 

A GLANCE at the map of the watering places will 
show the principal German spas arranged in four 
groups. 

The first of these comprises a small number situated 
in the north-westernly part of Germany, between the 
cities of Hanover, Paderborn, and Miinster. To this 
class I number Nenndorf, Eilsen, Rehme (Oeyn- 
hausen), Pyrmont, Meinberg, Lippspringe, Inselbad, 
Driburg. 

The second group, the largest of the four, embraces 
the bulk of the German spas, situated in the western 
and middle portion of Germany, near the banks of the 
Rhein and Main. The principal baths of this class 
are Aachen (Aix-la-Chapelle), Burtscheid, Neuenahr, 
Bertrich, Kreuznack, Ems, Schwalbach, Schlangenbad, 
Wiesbadeit, Weilbach, Soden, Homburg, Nauheim, 
Wildungen, Kissingen, Bocklet, Briickenau ; most of 
these belonging to the most favoured and celebrated 
spas of Europe. 

The third group is situated in Baden, Wiirtemberg, 
and Bavaria. At the head of this class ranks Baden- 
Baden ; Wildbad, Cannstadt, Kreuth, Reichenhall, 
belong to the same class. 

F 2 



68 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

The fourth group is exclusively composed of the 
Silesian baths in the eastern part of Germany ; of 
these Salzbrunn, Warmbrunn, Landeck, Cudowa, 
Reinerz, deserve to be noticed. 

Supposing our reader to have arrived at Bremen or 
Hamburg, we shall commence our trip from here to 
the first group of the German spas. Passing through 
Hanover, we reach by railway the little, but well 
reputed, spa, 

NENNDORF, a small village with 800 inhabitants ; 
it has powerful sulphur-springs ; besides these, there 
are salt-baths in Nenndorf, the salt-springs of the 
neighbouring village Sooldorf being carried thither by 
subterranean pipes, and used for bathing. It is 
situated in a woody region, 220 feet above the sea, 
with a climate which though variable is temperate and 
healthy, and with a mean summer temperature of 
64 F. The air is rather moist. The arrangements 
for bathing and inhalation are good. Number of 
visitors about 1200 annually. 

Hotels : Stadt Hannover, Hotel Kassel. 

Physicians : Dr. Erve, Dr. Neussel, Dr. Varenhorst, 
Grandidier. 

Access : From London or Paris, via Cologne by the 
Cologne-Minden railway to Minden, Haste, Nenn- 
dorf. 

Travelling westward by railway we reach, in about 
an hour, station Biickeburg, and thence, by an hour's 
stage-drive, the sulphur springs of 

EiLSEN. This is a small place with 400 inhabitants, 



THE WATERING PLACES OF GERMANY. 69 

situated in an open valley 273 feet above the sea ; 
with a mild and pure air, well sheltered from the 
north and east ; owing to its efficacious mud baths 
it has become quite popular. Number of visitors : 
2000. 

Physicians : Dr. Moller, Dr. Wegener, Dr. 
Schonian. 

From Buckeburg station we reach in seventy-five 
minutes 

Rehme-Oeynhausen, a celebrated spa (a station 
of the Cologne and Minden railway). It is a little 
city in Westphalia with 2000 inhabitants, situated 
166 feet above the sea, in a pretty valley, surrounded 
by high hills ; the air is fresh, pure, and moderately 
moist, rich in ozone. About 3700 persons visit the 
spa during the season, and 60-70,000 baths are 
given. The heat there is not so oppressive in summer 
as at most of the other continental spas, the mean 
summer temperature being 66° F. Sudden changes 
of the latter are prevented by the surrounding hills. 
The arrangements for bathing are perfect in every 
respect. The bathing-house for the thermal baths is 
a grand building in modern style, very tastefully 
fitted up. We enter it by a large, domed rotunda, 
which reminds us of the celebrated Pantheon at Rome ; 
close by is an elegant reception-room, where bathers 
take a short repose after the bath. The two wings 
on each side of the rotunda contain sixty-eight 
spacious bathing-rooms, provided with large, com- 
modious wooden tubs ; everything looks neat and 
clean. There is another bathing-house, with 35 



70 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

bathing-rooms, called the Soolbade-Haus, where plain 
salt-baths are given, which contain no carbonic acid. 
The spa has a handsome Kurhazcs, with a fine dining- 
salon, reading-room, &c. ; a reunion takes place every 
Saturday. A large splendid park adjoins the Kur- 
haus, and many shady walks afford pleasant op- 
portunity for active exercise, even on very warm days. 
A very interesting feature of the place is the large, 
domed inhalation-room, where patients inhale the 
atomized salt water. There is also a fountain where 
the mineral water is drunk, but as it tastes very 
salty, only a very small quantity can be taken. The 
place deserves to be more patronized by English and 
Americans. 

Excursions can be made to the Siehl, Melbergen, 
the Kappenberg, Eidinghausen, Haus Gohfeld. 

Hotels : Vogler's Hotel, Deutscher Kaiser, Victoria 
Hotel. 

Physicians : Drs. Lehmann, Miiller, Rinteln, Roh- 
den, Sauerwald, Weihe. 

Access : From London or Paris, via Cologne, on the 
Cologne-Minden railway directly to Rehme, or from 
Hamburg and Bremen via Hanover. 

Starting from Hanover in a southernly direction 
we reach by a two-hours' ride the old and renowned 
iron spa, 

PYRMONT, a little city with 1400 inhabitants, in 
the charming valley of the Emmer, 400 feet above 
the sea, surrounded by hills 1000 feet high. It is 
frequented by 12,000 persons annually ; 45,000 iron 
baths and 27,000 salt baths are given. The principal 



THE WATERING PLACES OF GERMANY. 7 1 

promenade for the patients is a beautiful alley of 
linden-trees, 1000 feet long, the trees having already 
reached an age of 200 years ; the Kurhaus, theatre, 
cafes, and numerous shops, are on this avenue. No- 
where else have I seen such a surprisingly fine park, 
with the most beautiful promenades of the oldest 
linden and chestnut-trees, as at Pyrmont. The little 
city presents a very fine appearance ; a large number 
of handsome villas, surrounded by fine gardens, afford 
pleasant residences for the patients. The environs 
are charming. At the end of the large linden-alley 
the principal well, called Hauptquelle, breaks forth ; it 
is covered by a handsome iron structure ; close by is 
a covered walk, where patients promenade on rainy 
days. About fifty feet distant is the Brodel, covered 
by a glass cupola ; the immense quantity of carbonic 
acid contained in this spring keeps the surface of the 
water in a continuous bubbling motion. The Helenen- 
qitelle, which is also very popular, is very pleasantly 
situated in the centre of the park ; its water is very 
rich in carbonic acid, and has a pleasant taste. The 
bathing-house for the iron baths is a large, high, and 
airy building, with sixty-eight bathing-rooms ; the 
tubs are excavations in the floor, lined with stone, 
slate, or marble. A small Russian vapour bath is also 
in the house. The other bathing-house, where the 
Soolbdder (saline baths) are given, is situated at the 
other end of the city, near the railway station ; it con- 
tains forty- one bathing-rooms. Near by is the Salz- 
quelle (salt spring), which is drunk, the water being 
very refreshing, and not very salty. A tramway 
carries patients from the city to the Soolbad. The 



J2 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

Kurhaus is an insignificant building with a large 
din'mg-salon, and a reading-room, where the London 
Times can be read. Peat and pine-needle baths are 
given at this spa. In the immediate neighbourhood 
is a cave filled with carbonic acid, similar to the 
celebrated cave near Naples. 

Excursions are recommended : to the Sohelemberg, 
Konigsberg, Friedensthal. 

Hotels : Grosses Bade- Hotel, Stadt Bremen, Krone, 
Lippischer Hof. 

Physicians : Drs. Seebohm, Lynker, Gieseken, 
Gruner, Kohler, Menke, Sorauer, Marcus, Wietz. 

Access : From London and Paris, via Cologne and 
Paderborn directly to Pyrmont. 

Half an hour distant from Pyrmont is the railway 
station Bergheim, and near it 

Meinberg, a village with 1500 inhabitants, in a 
pretty valley 650 feet above the sea, on the slope of 
the Teutoburg forest ; it has a mild climate and good 
arrangements for bathing and drinking ; its sulphur 
springs, and especially the sulphur mud baths, are 
highly recommended. There are several springs with 
a large quantity of carbonic acid, which is used for 
baths and inhalations. Number of visitors, about 
800. 

Hotels : Stern Rose, Sonne. 

Physicians : Drs. Caspari, Niedreck. 

Access : From Hanover by the Hanover- Altenbeck 
railway to Bergheim ; from London and Paris, via 
Cologne and Paderborn to Bergheim, thence by 
stage. 



THE WATERING PLACES OF GERMANY. 73 

From Bergheim we reach in fifteen minutes the 
old city of Paderborn, the oldest bishopric of West- 
phalia, founded by Charlemagne, and thence by stage 
to 

LlPPSPRlNGE, a spa which lately has come into 
great reputation for diseases of the lungs. It is a 
small town in Westphalia, with 2000 inhabitants, 375 
feet above the sea, located in a sandy plain ; pro- 
tected against the north and north-east winds by the 
hills of the Teutoburg forest (1000 feet high) ; it has a 
mild, equable climate ; the air is constantly moist on 
account of the numerous copious sources of the rivers 
Lippe and Jordan, which spring forth and take their 
course near the Kurgarten. The number of visitors 
is about 2000 annually. As usually, there is a Kur- 
garten, an old and a new Kurhaus, with a large number 
of furnished rooms for patients, and a bathing-house 
with twenty-three bathing-rooms. Special features of 
the place are a large salon of 5433 cubic feet, and 
several smaller ones of 1270 cubic feet, for the in- 
halation of nitrogen, the gases discharged from the 
mineral spring containing 87 per cent, nitrogen, the 
inhalation of which is considered very salubrious in 
lung diseases. The principal spring is the Arminius- 
quelle. Special attention is paid to diseases of the 
respiratory organs. 

Excursions are not much favoured, as persons with 
diseased lungs should avoid fatigue and excitement. 

Hotels : Altes und Neues Kurhaus, Hotel Wegener, 
Krieger, Concordia. 

Physicians : Drs. v. Brunn, Bussen, Dammann, 
Frey, Holtz, Rohden, Sauer. 



74 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

Access : From Hamburg or Bremen, by railway via 
Hanover to Paderborn ; from London or Paris, via 
Cologne to Paderborn, thence by stage. 

By a pleasant walk of ten minutes from the old city 
of Paderborn we reach a large establishment, called 

INSELBAD, which has several springs similar to 
those of Lippspringe. It is a sanitarium, patients 
receiving board and medical attendance at the esta- 
blishment, which is under the able management of 
Briigelmann. There are two rooms for the inhalation 
of nitrogen, a bathing-house with twelve bathing- 
rooms, and a large swimming-bath. Mud baths are 
also applied. All arrangements are good and com- 
fortable, and prices moderate. 

From Paderborn by railway in forty-five minutes 
we reach 

DRIBURG, an old celebrated iron spa, situated in a 
charming valley of the Teutoburg forest, 633 feet 
above the sea, surrounded by hills 1255 feet high ; the 
climate is mild and healthy, the air pure and in- 
vigorating. The arrangements for iron and sulphur 
mud baths are good. It is a good place for invalids 
fond of a quiet country-like resort. 

This spa has two rival establishments : the old 
bathing-house, containing thirty-four bathing-rooms, 
and a large number of furnished rooms for the ac- 
commodation of patients, and the new one, called 
Kaiser- Wilhelmsbad, with ten bathing-rooms and 
twenty furnished rooms. Two of the iron springs, the 
Haupt and Wiesenquelle, belong to the former ; the 



THE WATERING PLACES OF GERMANY. 75 

Kaiser- Wilhelm Stahlquelle,Xhe richest in carbonic acid, 
belongs to the latter. The environs are very attractive. 

Lodgings aX. the two bathing-houses, private houses, 
and at the hotels : Kothe, Fengerling, Englischer Hof. 

Physicians : Drs. Briick, Hiiller, Ricfenthal, Venn. 

Access : From Bremen or Hamburg, via Hanover 
to Driburg ; from London or Paris, via Cologne and 
Paderborn to Driburg, which is a station on the 
Altenburg-Halzminden railway. 

We now commence our trip through the second 
group of the German spas. 

AACHEN (Aix-la-Chapelle), the old imperial city 
of Charlemagne, is the first place which we visit. It 
is the most celebrated sulphur bath in Europe, situated 
in Rhenish-Prussia, near the Belgian frontier, 534 
feet above the sea, in a pleasant valley. It has a mild 
and healthy climate. It is the oldest of all German 
watering places, the wells having been known and 
extensively used by the Romans. The number of 
inhabitants is 80,000. The attractions afforded by 
such a large city in the shape of theatres, concerts, an- 
tiquities, &c, combined with a mild climate, induce 
many patients to remain there and undertake a cure 
during the winter months, they having the advantage 
of living in the same buildings where they take the 
baths. The wells issue from the limestone in the 
centre of the city. About 20,000 persons are annually 
recorded on the list of visitors, and 100,000 baths are 
given during the season. There is a spacious Kurhaus 
with a magnificent new concert-hall, and a large 
reading-room (London Times and Daily Telegraph) 



y6 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

The Kurgarten is small, but there are fine promenades 
all around the city, where invalids have plenty of 
opportunity for bodily exercise. In the morning 
patients drink the water of the Elisdbeth-Brunnen in a 
large rotunda built in Doric style, and promenade in 
the small Kurgarten in the rear of the fountain, where 
the band plays every morning. 

Aachen has eight bathing establishments with 
one hundred bathing-rooms, nine vapour baths, two 
piscina (swimming-baths) and inhalation-rooms. All 
the bathing-houses are the property of the city, 
and under the supervision of Dn Lersch, the able 
author of a large number of excellent works on 
balneology. The most magnificent bathing-house is 
the Kaiserbad, one of the best arranged buildings of 
the kind in Germany, with perfect arrangements for 
bathing, and large salons, and elegantly furnished 
rooms for invalids. All the bathing-rooms are high 
and airy, the walls being tastefully covered with 
finely-coloured tiles. The bathing-tubs are excava- 
tions in the floor, built of bricks and cement, with 
marble steps and seats. There is one bathing -room 
in this building, which is particularly styled the 
Kaisersbad ; it is a very elegant room, with a high, 
domed ceiling, the walls being lined with black and 
white marble ; the bathing-tub is also of marble. A 
very elegantly fitted up anteroom for dressing is 
attached to the bathing-room. A small extra fee is 
charged for the use of this superb little Kaisersbad. 

All the other bathing-houses likewise have excellent 
arrangements and furnished rooms for the accommo- 
dation of patients. The attendants are very well 



THE WATERING PLACES OF GERMANY. JJ 

trained ; those who do the shampooing and kneading, 
which is performed in a perfect manner, are called 
doucheurs or frotteurs. 

The most important of the numerous wells is the 
Kaiser quelle, which supplies the Kaiserbad, Neubad, 
Kdnigin v. Ungam, and the Elisabeth-Brunnen. 
Three other wells, called Quirinusquelle, Rosenquelle, 
and Corneliusquelle, furnish the water for the other 
bathing-houses. 

Hotels: Grand Monarque, Hotel Nuellens, Hotel 
de l'Empereur, Dragon d'or, Dubik, Fiigels Hotel, 
Union Hotel. 

Physicians: All practitioners in Aachen practise 
the bath treatment. 

Access : From Hamburg or Bremen, via Cologne to 
Aachen ; from London, to Calais or Ostend, and via 
Brussels, Verviers to Aachen ; from Paris, via Namur, 
Liittich (Liege) to Aachen. 

In close proximity to Aachen is another spa, cele- 
brated by the high temperature of its sulphur springs. 
This is Burtscheid, a city of 10,000 inhabitants. It has 
twenty-five thermal springs, one of which, the Milk- 
lenbendquelle, is the hottest spring of central Europe 
(160 F.), being even hotter than the Karlsbad 
Sprudel. But the water contains less sulphur than 
that of Aachen. The climate is very healthy, and 
the arrangements are similar to those of Aachen. It 
has ten bathing-houses ; the largest and best arranged 
hotels and bathing establishments are the Rosenbad, 
with one hundred rooms for patients, eighty bathing- 
rooms, and a fine garden ; and the Karlsbad, with fifty- 
six furnished rooms, and sixteen bathing- rooms. 



7 8 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

A Kurgarten, opposite to the Rosenbad, with 
pleasant walks and resting-places, is a great accom- 
modation for invalids residing at Burtscheid. A 
Trinkhalle (fountain-hall), where patients drink the 
water of the Victoriaquelle, is in the Kurgarten. 

Travelling further southward on the left bank of 
the Rhine, we reach the railway station, Remagen, 
and thence by stage, 

NEUENAHR, a small village, with four hundred 
inhabitants, in the Ahr valley, 270 feet above the sea. 
Though it has existed only for a short time as a spa 
(since 1856), it has already become very popular. It 
has a mild, pure air, without sudden changes of tempera- 
ture, being protected against sharp winds by high hills. 
The springs and hotels are on the right bank of the 
river Ahr. All arrangements are on a moderate 
scale. There is a Kurhaus, with a large number of 
furnished rooms, and a reading-room, where the fol- 
lowing English papers can be read: London Times, 
Galignani's Messenger, Illustrated London News. The 
bathing-house contains forty-five bathing-rooms and 
appliances of all kinds of douches, as lateral, circular, 
ascending, stomach, uterus douches. By a five minutes' 
walk we reach the Kurpark, whose shady walks and 
pleasant promenades are the best features of the spa. 
There is a small pavilion, where patients drink the 
mineral water, and a long covered passage, a very 
primitive structure of wood and bricks, affords some 
shelter on rainy days. A short distance from thence 
is Grosse Sprudel, the principal spring of Neuenahr, 
which breaks forth with a noisy, bubbling sound, but 



THE WATERING PLACES OF GERMANY. 79 

does not ascend, as does the Karlsbad Sprudel, nor 
is its temperature as high as that of the latter. 

Hotels : Kurhaus, Rheinischer Hof, Victoria. 

Physicians : Drs. Schnitz, Feltyen, Unschuld, Stiege, 
Mlinzel, Schmidt, Mermagen, Tesehemacher. 

Access: From Bremen or Hamburg, via Cologne 
and Bonn, to station Remagen (on the Rhine) ; from 
London, via Calais or Ostend to Brussels, Cologne, 
and Remagen ; from Paris, via Cologne to Remagen, 
thence by post-omnibus or carriage to Neuenahr. 

South of Neuenahr, near the river Mosel, is the 
little spa, 

Bertrich, a very suitable place for patients fond 
of a quiet but social living, and moderate prices. It 
is very pleasantly situated in the valley of the Mosel, 
between Coblenz and Trier (Treves), 433 feet above 
the sea; the climate is mild. Bertrich is called a 
mild Karlsbad, as its water does not contain so much 
sulphate of soda as the Karlsbad springs, nor has it so 
high a temperature. All arrangements are good and 
comfortable. 

Hotels: Klering, Werling, Thomas, Schmidt, 
Schneider. 

Physicians : Dr. Cuppers. 

Access : From Cologne, via Coblenz to Bullay ; from 
Paris, via Diedenhofen (Thionville) and Trier (Treves) 
to Bullay, thence by stage to Bertrich. 

Travelling further south on the left bank of the 
Rhine we reach 

KREUZNACH, the Mecca of all scrofulous patients, 



80 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

situated in the valley of the Nahe, 330 feet above the 
sea, a city with 14,000 inhabitants. It is surrounded 
by magnificent vineyards, and is one of the warmest 
watering places of Germany, with a mean temperature 
of 73 F. The climate is healthy and very mild, 
though sometimes a strong breeze prevails. Kreuz- 
nach ranks foremost of all saline baths ; it is the 
panacea of all scrofulous persons, and during the 
summer a place of pilgrimage for 6000 invalids. 
The excellent results achieved by the Kreuznach 
waters in the cure of scrofula are due not only to the 
efficacy of the water and the mild climate, but chiefly 
to the practical and elaborate method of treatment, 
and the perfect arrangements for bathing and drink- 
ing. The principal establishments are on an island, 
formed by two branches of the river Nahe. Here we 
find most of the hotels and private houses of the spa, 
nearly all of them surrounded by fine gardens, and 
built and fitted up solely for the accommodation of 
patients, every house being provided with bathing-rooms. 
Spa Kreuznach is a quiet, pleasant place, and the 
large number of gardens around the dwellings give it 
a very charming appearance. A wide street, adorned 
on each side by fine private dwellings, leads to the 
Kurhaus, which is located at the southern end of the 
island. It is a handsome building, with a large salon 
used as a concert-hall and dining-room, and two 
reading-rooms, where I found the following English 
newspapers : — London Times, Illustrated London 
News, Daily News, Standard, Saturday Review, 
Galignani's Messenger, American Register. A large 
terrace, 280 feet long, is added to the Ktirhaus, and 



THE WATERING PLACES OF GERMANY. 8 1 

here patients enjoy their coffee, tea, &c, while listen- 
ing to the music performed by the band in an elegant 
pavilion facing the terrace. In close proximity to the 
Kurhaus is an elegant iron Trinkhalle (fountain hall), 
the rendezvous of the patients who drink the salty 
water of the Elisenbrunnen. This spring issues from 
a hole, which is sunk forty-six feet deep into the 
porphyry rock. The Trinkhalle is a new structure, and 
has only lately been thrown open to the public. 

The Kurhaus contains twenty-seven bathing-rooms, 
a fine inhalation-room for inhaling atomized saline 
water, and Turkish and Russian baths. 

Numerous pleasant excursions can be made in the en- 
virons. The following points are the most favoured : — 

Schlossberg (480 feet), Kuhberg, Monchsberg, Gans 
(1000 feet) with a splendid view of the whole sur- 
roundings, Rheingrafenstein (700 feet), Ebernburg, 
once the castle of the celebrated Franz v. Sickin- 
gen. 

Hotels : Visitors who stop at the railway station of 
the city of Kreuznach, can remain at one of the city 
hotels until they have hired rooms for the season at 
the spa ; but it is more practical to leave the railway 
at station Bad-Kreuznach, and stop at one of the hotels 
of the spa until arrangements have been made for the 
whole time of the course, which generally extends to 
six weeks. Patients can make arrangements for board 
at most of the private houses. 

Hotels (1) in the city: Pfalzer Hof, Adler, Berliner 
Hof ; (2) in Bad-Kreuznach : Kurhaus, Oranienhof, 
Kauzenberg, Hotel de l'Europe, Hotel du Nord, Hotel 
Royal, Englischer Hof. 



82 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

Physicians : Drs. Michels, Priczer, Stabel, Karst, 
Hessel, Fleussner, Strahl, Jung, &c. 

Access : From Cologne, via Coblenz, Bingen, to 
Kreuznach, by railway ; or by steamboat on the Rhine 
from Cologne to Bingerbruck, thence by railway to 
Kreuznach ; from Paris, via Metz and Saarbriick to 
Kreuznach. 

In close proximity to Kreuznach (half-an-hour dis- 
tant) is the little spa — 

MuNSTER AM Stein, beautifully situated in a 
valley surrounded by steep hills, with a pure, bracing 
air and a mild climate ; its wells and bathing 
arrangements are similar to those of Kreuznach. 
Those who prefer a quiet, cheap, and country-like 
place, would do well to resort thither. 

Hotels : Kurhaus, Victoria, Adler, Stolzenfels, 
&c. 

Physicians : Drs. Wilsoh, Glacssgen, and the phy- 
sicians of Kreuznach. 

Access: Railway from Kreuznach to Miinster. 

Crossing to the other side of the Rhine, we come to 
the most distinguished and frequented watering 
places of Europe, famous for luxury and high style of 
living, and at one time most notorious and attractive 
to the fashionable world by the gambling-tables, 
which, fortunately, have been closed since the 
foundation of the new German Empire. These 
are the Rhenish spas (popularly so-styled on account 
of the neighbourhood of the Rhine), of which the largest 
is — 

Wiesbaden, the most frequented bath of Germany, 



THE WATERING PLACES OF GERMANY. 83 

visited annually by more thai! 60,000 persons ; it has 
43,700 inhabitants. A large number of villa houses 
surrounded by handsome gardens present a fine 
appearance. Situated on the southern slope of the 
Taunus mountains, 323 feet above the sea, in a plea- 
sant valley, open only towards the south and south- 
east, it has a very mild and warm climate, for which 
reason many foreigners prefer to live there during the 
winter. In summer it is sometimes very warm and 
close, and then not suitable for invalids requiring a 
tonic, bracing air. Wiesbaden, the capital of the 
former Duchy of Nassau, has all the attractions of a 
large, wealthy city ; all arrangements are first-class, 
the environs very pleasing, arid the proximity of the 
Rhine lends another charm to the spa. 

Entering the city from the railway station, and 
turning to the right, we promenade through the 
Wilhelmsstrasse, a long, wide street with several rows 
of old shady trees, at the end of which we arrive at a 
large square, which indeed is unique. The fine 
garden, and the shady promenade with time-honoured 
chestnut-trees, the two large ponds, each with a grand 
fountain in the centre, the long colonnades on both 
sides of the square with their brilliant shops, and the 
magnificent Kurhaus in the background — all this 
presents a most striking appearance. And in the 
evening, when garden, colonnades, and Kurhaus are 
lighted up by an immense number of gas-lights ; when 
the gushing waters fall over hundreds of gas-jets — 
placed around the fountains, and throwingtheir brilliant 
light through the glistening spray — the sight is fascinat- 
ing. The colonnades, built in Doric style, are very 

G 2 



84 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

spacious, and patients as well as sightseers throng 
there, eager to spend their money for the various 
articles exhibited attractively in the shops, the bazaar 
of Wiesbaden. But the centre of attraction to visitors 
is the magnificent Kurhaus, especially the grand con- 
cert-hall, 130 feet long, 60 feet wide, and 50 feet high, 
with large galleries, resting on 28 Corinthian columns, 
of red marble with gilded capitals. All the other 
salons are also fitted up in elegant, luxurious style ; 
the reading-rooms contain a very large number of 
newspapers (English and American journals included). 
Added to the rear of the Kurhaus is a splendid 
piazza, which faces a large square planted with old 
trees,, and adorned with a large number of orange-trees. 
A beautiful lake, on which graceful swans enjoy an 
undisturbed dolce far niente, completes the charming 
scene. This lovely spot is the afternoon rendezvous 
of the mass of visitors who are desirous of enjoying 
an hour of sweet idleness, while sipping aromatic 
coffee, and listening to the music performed by an 
excellent band. 

An extensive Kurpark, with ponds, flower-beds, old 
trees, and shady walks, adjoins the Kurhaus, enticing 
patients and visitors to ramble over the delightful 
promenades and inhale the pure mild air. No wonder 
that Wiesbaden attracts many thousand visitors. 

Opposite to the Kurgarten is the theatre, and in 
front of it a small square, where the bust of Schiller, 
the great German poet, is placed on a fine granite 
pedestal. A short distance from this square we enter 
a very long passage, covered by a neat iron structure, 
which leads to the Kochbrunnen, the most favoured of 



THE WATERING PLACES OF GERMANY. 85 

the twenty-nine springs of Wiesbaden, and for a long 
time the only one used for drinking. Patients here 
congregate in the morning, the unpleasant task of 
drinking the salty liquid being alleviated by the merry 
tunes of a lively waltz or a spirited march. 

A new fountain, inclosed by a costly structure of 
serpentine, has just been opened (June, 1879) ; the 
name of it is Schiitzenhof quelle (107 F.) 

There are thirty-two bathing establishments with 
900 bathing-rooms, all the large hotels being provided 
with elegant baths. 

Many pleasant excursions can be made in the 
neighbourhood of Wiesbaden ; I mention as points 
of interest, Dietenmuhle, Sonnenberg, Russian chapel, 
Platte, temple on the Neroberg. 

Hotels : Nassauer Hof, Hotel Victoria, Adler, Rose, 
Grand Hotel, Hotel du Nord, Taunus Hotel, Hotel 
Vagel, 

Physicians : Wiesbaden has a large number of ex- 
perienced physicians, who all practise as bath doctors. 
I mention Drs. Albert, Alefeld, Bickel, Kohn, 
Diesterwey, Fritze, Graefe, Haas, Hartmann, Roth, 
Velten, &c, &c. 

Access : From Bremen or Hamburg, via Cologne by 
railway to Wiesbaden, or from Cologne by steamboat ; 
from London, via Cologne ; from Paris, via Frankfort- 
on-the-Main to Wiesbaden. 

After a pleasant stage ride of two and half hours 
from Wiesbaden, we arrive at one of the most popular 
iron baths — 

Schwalbach (or Langenschwalbach), much fre- 



86 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

quented by English and Americans, 900 feet above the 
sea, in a narrow valley, surrounded by woods ; it has 
3000 inhabitants. Prices are high, and rooms are often 
very scarce in the height of the season (July). The 
powerful iron waters, combined with a pure, fresh air, 
are very effective in the cure of feeble and anaemic 
persons. All arrangements are first class. A magni- 
ficent new Kurhaus has just been completed (June, 
1879); it contains a superb concert-hall, adorned 
with twenty pilasters of black marble, a large, elegant 
dining-salon, and a reading-room with the following 
newspapers : London Times, Daily News, Standard, 
Galignani's Messenger, New York Herald. The bath- 
ing-house has ninety bathing-rooms, all neatly fitted 
up, and provided with bathing-tubs of brass. On the 
second floor of this building, is a more elegant bath- 
ing-room, with a nicely fitted up anteroom ; this is 
called the princes bath [Fiirstenbad), and can be used 
by every patient who pays the moderate fee of six 
marks. A large wooden building, called Trinkhalle, 
part of which is occupied by a limited number of 
modest-looking shops, is used for promenading on 
rainy days. The Weinbrunnen, the most popular of 
Schwalbach's springs, is nearly covered by a new iron 
pavilion ; a little farther off, in the park, is the Stakl- 
brunnen. On the whole the little city looks very neat, 
and the large number of stately hotels and lodging- 
houses bear testimony of the prosperity of the place. 
About 5000 patients visit it annually, and 50,000 
baths are given. 

Excursions are made to the Paulinenberg, Ratte 
(1300 feet), Adolfseck, Hohenstein, &c. 



THE WATERING PLACES OF GERMANY. 87 

Hotels: Herzogvon Nassau, Post, Hotel Metropole, 
Russischer Hof, Hotel Wagener, Taunus Hotel. 

Physicians : Drs. Birnbaum, Bohm, Frickhoffer, 
Fritze, Genth, Gosebruch, Grebert. 

Access : By stage from Wiesbaden. 

By an hour's stage drive on a fine, shady road, we 
reach — 

Schlangenbad, the most popular spa for diseases 
of the nervous system and female disorders. It is a 
lovely little place, with 350 inhabitants, delightfully 
situated in a valley on the southern slope of the 
Taunus mountains, surrounded by high wooded hills, 
which afford sufficient shelter from sudden changes of 
temperature. Though 925 feet above the sea, it has 
a mild climate. The air is exceedingly pure and 
fresh, and acts highly beneficially on nervous persons, 
who resort to the little spa mostly for a stay during 
the whole summer. The society which congregates 
here is very refined, and even of an aristocratic 
character. The whole place looks very neat and 
charming, quiet and attractive. The shady prome- 
nades which surround it enjoy a great, and indeed well 
deserved, reputation ; there is hardly any other spa 
where so much attention and skill is devoted to that 
important requisite of a well-arranged watering 
place. Nature favours this bath very much, as the 
woods, which completely surround it, form one single 
grand park of the most beautiful beech-trees, in such 
close proximity to the dwellings that patients almost 
enter the woods as soon as they leave the house. 

The bathing-houses and all other arrangements are 



88 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

under the supervision of the government, which 
seems to control everything, even the charges of the 
washerwomen, there being a price-list posted on a 
wall of the Kurhaus, stating the price for washing 
shirts, collars, ladies' underwear, &c, and signed by 
the burgomaster. 

The Kurhaus is a very modest-looking building, 
containing a salon for reunions, a billiard and reading- 
room (London Times, Galignam s Messenger). The 
new Trinkhalle (completed June, 1879) 1S a very 
handsome iron structure, 270 feet long. The three 
bathing-houses contain fifty spacious bathing-rooms, 
and a large number of furnished rooms for the 
accommodation of visitors ; the number of these is 
2000 annually. All the houses of the spa also have 
arrangements for patients. 

Hotels : Nassauer Hof, Victoria, Pariser Hof, 
Germania. 

Physicians : Drs. Bertrand, Baumann, Waif. 

Access; From Cologne, by railway to station Eltville, 
thence by an hour's stage ride to Schlangenbad ; or 
by railway to Wiesbaden, thence by stage (three and 
a half hours) to Schlangenbad. 

By three hours' railway travel from Wiesbaden, on 
the right bank of the Rhine, we reach — 

EMS, the gem of the German spas, and likewise 
one of those celebrated and luxurious Rhenish spas 
where all public buildings are erected and fitted up 
in elegant style. The streets and promenades are 
thronged during the season by 13,000 patients ; and 
persons fond of seeing high life and fashionable 



THE WATERING PLACES OF GERMANY. 89 

society can there fully gratify their desire. Ems is 
situated in the small, picturesque valley of the Lahn, 
291 feet above the sea ; it has 5500 inhabitants. Being 
sheltered by high wooded hills from the cool north 
and east winds, it has a mild climate ; but it cannot 
be denied that during the summer the heat at times 
is very oppressive, the temperature rising as high as 
100°. Ems is a captivating place, but not a very 
cheap one. Beautiful environs, the close proximity 
of the Rhine, the completeness of all arrangements 
for bathing as well as for amusements, the refined 
society which congregates there, are attractions not 
often found combined. Its wells having the reputa- 
tion of possessing great curative effect in cases of 
sterility, it is since many years the favourite watering 
place of the ladies. In the afternoon the elite of the 
society assembles in the Kurgarten, to listen to the 
usual afternoon concerts ; in the morning the guests 
crowd in the Kurhaus at the principal springs : the 
Kesselbrunnen,Kaiserbrunnen y and the world-renowned 
Kranchen. 

The Kurhaus is a large old-fashioned building, 
containing, besides the mineral springs, a large number 
of elegant bathing-rooms ; in one wing some bathing- 
rooms, nicely fitted up, are reserved for ladies ; in 
one of these is the far-famed Bubenquelle (Boys'- 
fountain), a thermal spring of 95 °, ascending in the 
centre of the bathing tub. 

Directly opposite to the Kurhaus is the inhalation- 
house, where the atomized mineral water is inhaled. 

Close by the Kurhaus is the conversation-house, 
which at Ems is called Kursaal, a handsome building 



90 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

with superb salons, restaurant, &c. The grand salon, 
which is used for concerts, dancing and theatrical 
performances, is a magnificent room, with galleries 
supported by sixteen marble colums ; the reading- 
room is a very large, elegant room, covering the 
whole breadth of the house ; it was once the grand 
gambling salon, and is now stocked with a considera- 
ble number of newspapers. The following English 
papers are on the list : London Times, Daily News, 
Telegraph, Galignani 's Messenger, American Register, 
New York Herald. 

A very fine iron structure, called Trinkhalle, adjoins 
the Kursaal ; it is a long covered walk, used for 
promenading on rainy days. In front of the Kur- 
saal is the Kurgarten, and a long row of brilliant 
shops, the bazaar of Ems. Fine pleasure-grounds 
adjoining the Trinkhalle, shady promenades on both 
sides of the river Lahn, and pretty villa houses, en- 
hance the delightful picture which the lovely little 
spa presents to the eyes of the tourist. 

Opposite to the Kurgarten, on the other side of the 
river, is the new royal bathing-house with excellent 
arrangements. It contains forty-six bathing-rooms 
with tubs of fine white porcelain. One of these 
rooms, with an elegantly furnished anteroom and a 
marble bathing-tub, is denominated Kaiserbad (im- 
perial bath), and can be used by every patient who 
is inclined to pay the small fee of three marks. An 
inhalation-room is also in the building. There are 
also seventeen bathing-rooms reserved for ladies ex- 
clusively, each of them provided with two separate 
tanks, which furnish the water for the powerful uterus- 



THE WATERING PLACES OF GERMANY. 9 1 

douchet, applied for disorders of the uterine system. 
Immense reservoirs, where the thermal water is 
cooled to the proper temperature, supply the baths. 
There is also another royal bathing-house, the Fiirsl- 
enthurns. All the government buildings contain 127 
bathing- rooms. There are also several private bath- 
ing-houses with elegant arrangements. 

There are many interesting and easily accessible 
points in the environs of Ems, with good restaurants 
and cafes ; most of them afford a splendid view of 
the valley of the Rhine, the Taunus mountains, &c. 
The following may be mentioned : Mahlbergskopf, 
Baderlei, Mooshiitte, Schone Aussicht. 

Hotels : Englischer Hof, Russischer Hof, Darm- 
stadter Hof, Hotel Guttenberg, Hotel Johannisberg, 
Hotel de France. 

Physicians : Drs. Cohn, Doring, Gusse, Goltz, Gut- 
tentag, Grossmann, Hill, Lange, Nalda, Orth, Panthel, 
Vogler, Wenkenbach, Wuth. 

Access : From Bremen or Hamburg, via Cologne 
and Coblenz, to Ems ; from London and Paris, also 
via Cologne, Coblenz, to Ems. 

Starting from Wiesbaden, we reach by half an hour's 
railway ride, station Florsheim, and thence by stage 
in twenty minutes — 

Weilbach, a sulphur spa, situated 420 feet above 
the sea, in an open plain on the southern slope of 
the Taunus mountains. It is a quiet little spot, with- 
out special attractions except the fine Kurpark ; all 
arrangements are on a very small scale. There is a 
new bathing-house, with twelve bathing-rooms and a 



92 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS 

very fine inhalation-room, where patients inhale the 
sulphuretted hydrogen emanating from the sulphur 
water, which falls down from a high fountain. One 
hundred thousand bottles of sulphur water are annu- 
ally exported. A lithia spring is a good adjuvant 
to the sulphur water. 

Hotels : Vier Jahreszeiten, and Kurhaus. 

Physicians : Drs. Neuroth, Stifft. 

There is another spa, of far greater importance, in 
this neighbourhood, viz. : — 

SODEN, a small city with 1500 inhabitants, very 
pleasantly situated, 440 feet above the sea, in a long 
wooded valley, at the foot of the Taunus mountains, 
well protected against north and east winds. It has 
a very mild, sedative air, which is moderately moist, 
and rich in ozone ; there are no sudden changes of 
temperature. Soden has a, fine Kurgar ten ; but though 
an old spa, it is still in want of the inevitable Kurhaus, 
although a private hotel assumes that proud name. 
However, there is a new bathing-house with thirty- 
two bathing-rooms, and with a fine pleasure-ground 
in front of it. An iron spring is in the immediate 
neighbourhood at the village of Nattenhain. About 
3000 persons, affected chiefly with diseases of the throat 
and bronchial tubes, visit the place during the season. 

There are pleasant excursions to the three Linden, 
Altenhamer Thai, Sulzbach, &c. 

Hotels : Kurhaus, Europaischer Hof, Frankfurter 
Hof, Hotel Uhrig. 

Physicians : Drs. Broking, Fresenius, Kohler, 
Pagenstecher, Thilenius, Stoltzing, Schliiter. 



THE WATERING PLACES OF GERMANY. 93 

Access: From Frankfort-on-the-Main by railway in 
thirty minutes. 

We are now about to visit the once most fashion- 
able and stylish of all the so-called Rhenish baths, 
which for a long time had gained the greatest noto- 
riety by the grandeur and elegance of its esta- 
blishments, and last but not least by its far-famed 
gambling-tables, which at present are closed. This is — 

HOMBURG. Scarcely known before 1840, it has, by 
the aid of the gambling-tables, become one of the 
most frequented spas in Europe, being still visited 
annually by 10,000 patients and an equal number of 
tourists, English and Americans rushing thither in large 
numbers. It is pleasantly situated, 600 feet above 
the sea, on the slope of a hill of the Taunus moun- 
tains, well sheltered from the north and east ; its 
8000 inhabitants chiefly depend on the income derived 
from the visitors. The grand buildings of the spa — as 
the Kurhaus, theatre, palm-house, &c. — which have 
been erected by the former proprietors of the gam- 
bling-tables, have been taken possession of (since 
1872) by the city; a small fee is now collected from 
the visitors for the purpose of keeping them in proper 
condition. The fear of the good citizens of Homburg 
of losing the patronage of the civilized world by the 
abolition of gambling, has proved groundless, the 
place having ample attractions, owing to its charming 
situation, complete arrangements, and effective waters. 
A fashionable and more select society than formerly, 
now congregates there, all having these two objects 
in view, viz. pleasure and restoration of health. 



94 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

Entering the city at the railway station, we pass 
through the principal street, the Louisenstrasse, and 
stop at the Kurhaus, the centre of attraction to all 
visitors. It is perhaps the grandest establishment of 
the kind in Central Europe, only the conversation- 
houses of Wiesbaden and Baden-Baden being capable 
of bearing comparison with it ; it has large, magnifi- 
cent salons, elegantly and luxuriously fitted up, and 
richly ornamented ; a superb ball-room with marble 
columns, a grand d'm'mg-salon, conversation-rooms, 
and two large comfortable reading-rooms, one for 
German, the other for foreign newspapers. The 
following English newspapers are on the catalogue : 
London Times, Daily News, Telegraph, Pall Mall 
Gazette, Galignani's Messenger, New York Herald, 
New York Weekly Tribwie, New York Weekly Times. 
A long wide corridor adjoining the grand salon, and 
extending nearly over the whole length of the build- 
ing, affords opportunity for promenading, if rain pre- 
vents active exercise in the open air. 

Adjoining the Kurhaus to the north is a large 
terrace, covered with glass, where visitors have a 
beautiful view of the garden and the park ; here is 
the rendezvous of the guests in the afternoon, where 
they take coffee, listening to the music and eyeing 
each other. Stepping down from this terrace, we 
enter the park, whose extensive grounds are very 
tastefully laid out. Beautiful flower-beds, fine old 
trees, shady walks kept in excellent order and alter- 
nating with green lawns, render the park as pleasant 
and attractive as nature and art can make it. 

All springs are in the park, and most of them are 



THE WATERING PLACES OF GERMANY. 95 

enclosed by elegant stone structures. The Elizabeth- 
Brunnen, where most of the visitors crowd in the 
morning-, is surrounded by a very tasteful railing of 
red sandstone, the fountain itself being enclosed by 
a fine marble basin, while the whole floor around is 
paved with mosaic pavement. A short covered walk 
leads from thence to the palm-house, where palms and 
other tropical plants delight the eyes of the visitor. 
The long shady promenade adjoining this spring is 
thronged by the mass of visitors, English and Ameri- 
cans outnumbering the other nationalities (in 1878, 
about 3200 English, and nearly 700 Americans, were 
registered at Homburg) ; and so much English conver- 
sation is heard, that one might imagine himself to be 
promenading by the shady waters of an English 
watering place. 

A bathing-house containing sixteen rooms is situ- 
ated in the park, another one near the Kurhans ; but 
bathing is not much favoured at Homburg, as the 
internal application of the springs is necessary in 
order to produce beneficial effects. 

Hotels- Vier Jahreszeiten, Russischer Hof, Euro- 
paischer Hof, Rheinischer Hof, Englischer Hof, Hotel 
de France, Victoria. 

Physicians: Drs. Becker, Dietz, Friedlich, Hitzel, 
Hoeber, Lommel, Weber, Will, Zimmer, Lewis 
(English). 

Access : From Bremen or Hamburg, via Cassel and 
Frankfort-on-the-Main to Homburg; from London and 
Paris, to Frankfort-on-the-Main, thence to Homburg. 

Not far from Frankfort, on the railway from that 



96 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

city to Giessen, is another spa, which is becoming more 
and more popular. This is — 

Nauheim, a city with 2500 inhabitants, situated 
450 feet above the sea, on the north-east slope of the 
Taunus mountains. As a spa has existed only since 
1834, but it has already acquired a great reputation 
by its efficacious wells and superior arrangements. 
It has a palatial Kurhaus, a relic of bygone times, 
when the gambling-tables attracted thousands ot 
visitors. Passing through a magnificent vestibule, 
supported by Corinthian columns, we enter the grand 
salon, which in grandeur and elegance resembles those 
of the conversation-houses of Homburg, Wiesbaden, 
&c. On each side of it are spacious and elegant 
salons, which are used as sitting, dining, chess, and 
reading-rooms, the latter containing, among a large 
number of newspapers, the following English ones : 
London Times, Illustrated London News, Punch. A 
large terrace, ornamented with flowers, is added to 
the Kurhaus ; descending from it, we stroll over the 
pleasure-grounds and promenades of an extensive 
Kurpark. By a short walk we reach the Grosse 
Sprudel, the most important well of Nauheim, ex- 
tremely rich in carbonic acid ; its water is only used 
for bathing. The spa has three bathing-houses, with 
130 bathing-rooms, where at times 1000 baths a-day 
are given. There are also wooden boxes used for 
carbonic acid gas baths. A short distance from the 
bathing-houses is the Kurbrunnen, the most favoured 
by those who use the water internally. 

Excursions : To the Johannisberg, Stadtwald, 
' Schloss, Fiegenberg, Ruine, Miinzenburg, &c. 



THE WATERING PLACES OF GERMANY. 97 

Hotels : Hotel de l'Europe, Bellevue. Deutscher 
Hof, Darmstadter Hof. 

Physicians : Drs. Bencke, Bode, Erhardt, Groedel, 
Abec, Scott. 

Access : From Bremen or Hamburg, via Cassel and 
Giessen to Nauheim; from London, via Cologne, Cob- 
lenz, to Nauheim ; from Paris, via Frankfort-on-the- 
Main. 

Travelling eastward, the next celebrated watering 
place we reach is — 

KlSSlNGEN, a name well known to the reader, as 
the Kissingen water is sold perhaps by all druggists 
in all civilized countries. This spa is the Eldorado 
of dyspeptic English and Americans, who extensively 
patronize it. It is very pleasantly situated, in the 
valley of the Saale, 590 feet above the sea, protected 
against north and south-east winds by wooded hills. 
It has a mild climate ; the air is pure, and rich in 
ozone. About 10,000 invalids annually visit the city 
whose 3500 inhabitants seem to make a living only 
from the money spent by the visitors, there being 
apparently no other branches of industry carried on. 
The Kurpark is a very pretty little spot, with several 
rows of large, old, shady trees, where the patients 
perambulate in the morning from six till eight, drink- 
ing the ordained quantity of mineral water, and 
listening to the masterpieces of the great composers 
performed by a select band. All the springs — 
the celebrated Pandur, the far-famed Ragorzy, and 
the mild, sparkling Maxbrimnen — are in the Kur- 
park, covered by handsome iron structures. The 

H 



98 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

water is here served by male attendants ! it is fresh 
and palatable, and to drink it is rather a pleasure. 
It is usually taken cold ; but if so ordered by the 
physician, it is warmed on practical appliances, in the 
shape of large tables heated by . gas. Opposite to 
the springs are arcades, which afford ample oppor- 
tunity for promenading on rainy days. The conver- 
sation-house is a handsome building, but not so grand, 
nor so elegant, as the one at Homburg or Wiesbaden ; 
it has several nice salons, and a reading-room with a 
fair number of newspapers. 

Kissingen is not a luxurious place, like Homburg 
or Baden-Baden ; there is not so much display, and 
less extravagance, but more attention on the part of 
the visitors to the real duty, i.e., drinking and bathing. 
The arrangements for bathing are very good ; the 
new bathing establishment, erected by a company, 
contains 120 bathing-rooms, more or less elegant 
according to the price. 

There are very pleasant promenades adjoining the 
conversation-house and outside of the city ; in fact, 
wherever we direct our steps, we find splendid woods 
and numerous shady walks. By half an hour's walk 
on shady promenades on the banks of the Saale, we 
reach the Salinen, where the magnificent salt spring, 
the Sprudel, breaks forth from the sandstone, at a 
depth of 300 feet, rising and falling periodically ; it 
has an abundance of water and carbonic acid, and 
supplies the bathing-houses. A nice coffee -garden, 
in the immediate neighbourhood of the salines, is 
the afternoon rendezvous of the visitors. There are 
many patients who remain for several hours at the 



THE WATERING PLACES OF GERMANY. 99 

Gradir-hauser (long structures, in which fagots are 
piled up, through which the salt water trickles), in order 
to inhale the air saturated with small particles of salt. 

Hotels : Kurhaus, Russischer Hof, Hotel Kaiser, 
Hotel Victoria, Hotel de Baviere, Preussischer 
Hof, &c. 

Physicians : Drs. Bexberger, Dietz, Diruf, Erhard, 
Franque, Pfriem, Sotier, Stohr, Welsch. 

Access: From London and Paris, to Frankfort-on- 
the-Main, thence via Schweinfurt to Kissingen ; from 
Bremen or Hamburg, via Hanover, Cassel, Fulda, to 
Kissingen. 

Promenading from Kissingen along the banks of 
the Saale, we arrive in about an hour at the little 
spa — 

BOCKLET, a very quiet but pleasant place, with a 
strong chalybeate spring. Of course the arrange- 
ments are on a modest scale, but the place looks very 
attractive. There is a delightful little Kurpark, with 
very old trees and many resting-places, and a hand- 
some Trinkhalle ; woods, with pleasant, shady walks, 
surround the village. The small bathing establish- 
ment looks neat and clean ; peat baths are in great 
favour. The iron water has a very refreshing taste, 
owing to the great quantity of carbonic acid. Lodg- 
ings can be had at the so-called Kurhaus. 

This spa is an excellent place for those who like a 
quiet secluded retreat, and would certainly be far 
more patronized if that formidable rival, Kissingen, 
were not in the immediate neighbourhood. 

Physician : Dr. Diruf, jun. 
H 2 



100 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 
Access : From Kissingen by stage twice a- day. 

By a five hours' stage drive we travel from Kissingen 
to— 

BruCKENAU, a chalybeate spring, picturesquely 
situated in a pleasant valley, 915 feet above the sea, 
with a pure, bracing air. It has an elegant Kurhaus, 
built by King Ludwig I. of Bavaria, and is a very 
desirable place for those who like a cheap, country- 
like living. Number of visitors, 1000. 

Hotels : Bairischer Hof, Post. 

Physicians : Drs. Hermann, Imhof. 

Access: From Hamburg or Bremen, via Cassel and 
Fulda, to station Iossa, thence by stage in two hours 
to Briickenau ; from London and Paris, via Frankfort- 
on-the-Main to Iossa. 

The trip through the second group of the German 
spas having been finished, a few words remain to be 
said of a spa which lies between the first and the 
second groups ; this is — 

WlLDUNGEN, a place so highly recommended by 
the profession to patients affected with diseases of 
the urinary system, that it deserves to be more 
patronized by English and Americans suffering from 
such disorders. It is a small city in the duchy of 
Waldeck, with 2000 inhabitants, situated 840 feet 
above the sea, in a pleasant open valley, partly sur- 
rounded by wooded hills 1700 feet high. The climate 
is fresh, but not rough, though the evenings are cool 
and moist. The springs, bathing-houses, &c, are 



THE WATERING PLACES OF GERMANY. 10 1 

about twenty minutes distant from the place, These 
springs, though in great repute for several hundred 
years, were formerly not much patronized, owing to 
the poor arrangements ; but since 1857, when a com- 
pany took possession of them, they have become quite 
popular, many improvements having been made. A 
large lodging and bathing-house, containing eighty 
nicely furnished rooms and fifteen bathing-rooms, 
with tubs of slate or marble, affords good and com- 
fortable accommodation, and also a very pleasant 
residence, owing to the nice garden in front of it, and 
the pleasant view of the city, mountains, valleys, &c. 
In close proximity, but one hundred feet higher, lies 
a handsome Kurhaus, with a large concert salon, 
dining and reading-room. By half an hour's walk we 
reach the most renowned of the springs, the Helenen- 
quelle, situated in a ravine, surrounded by high hills. A 
fine, antique temple, with a handsome portico, sup- 
ported by two caryatides, has been erected over the 
spring. The water is bright, sparkling, and very 
refreshing. Another much-favoured spring, the Vic- 
tor quelle, is most pleasantly located in the wood, not 
far from the lodging-house. At the other end of the 
spa is the Konigsquelle, the property of Dr. Rorig, and 
the richest in carbonic acid. A bathing-house with 
twelve bathing -rooms is attached to it, and a 
spacious garden and covered walk afford ample room 
for promenading. The whole place looks quiet and 
country-like, and is well suited to patients fond of 
quiet living. The number of visitors has steadily 
increased from 358 in 1857, to 1700 in 1875 ; more 
than 30,000 bottles of the mineral water are annually 



102 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

exported. The woods in the rear of the lodging- 
house afford shady promenades. 

Excursions are made to the Zickzackberg, Hom- 
berg (1655 feet), Ratzenstein, &c. 

Lodgings : The best accommodations are in the 
Logirhaus (lodging-house), others in Hotel de Russie, 
Hof von Waldeck, Post. 

Physicians : Drs. Rorig, Doehne, Kriiger, Lingels- 
heim, Marc, Stoecker. 

Access: From London or Paris, via Frankfort-on-the- 
Main, to station Wabern (near Cassel) ; from Bremen 
or Hamburg, via Hanover and Cassel to Wabern ; 
from Wabern by stage in two hours to Wildungen. 

From Frankfort-on-the-Main we continue our trip 
in a southerly direction, to visit the third group of 
the German spas. They are all situated in the southern 
part of Germany, viz., in Baden, Wiirtemberg, and 
Bavaria. By express train from Frankfort, through 
one of the most charming regions of Germany, we 
reach in four and a half hours — 

Baden -Baden, the crow7iing glory of all German 
spas. Its situation, and the completeness of all ar- 
rangements, the charming environs, and the fashion- 
able society which assembles there every season, all 
unite to make a sojourn at this beautiful spot most 
delightful and pleasant. Therefore it is not surprising 
that the elite of the whole world resort to this little 
paradise, either for recreation or amusement. About 
50,000 persons visit it annually Frenchmen espe- 
cially were formerly accustomed to flock thither in 
large numbers, and gave the place quite a French 



THE WATERING PLACES OF GERMANY. 103 

appearance. French style, French manners, and 
French demi-monde prevailing more than desirable. 
This has somewhat changed since the last Franco- 
German war. Moreover, the gambling-rooms having 
been closed in 1872, the greatest attraction for a 
certain class of people has disappeared. These 
habitues of the faro table are now conspicuous by their 
absence, but their non-appearance is not complained 
of, English and Americans, and especially the 
Russian nobility, patronize the place very extensively. 
A large number of splendid villas, erected by aristo- 
crats or rich nabobs, contribute materially to enhance 
the natural beauty of the spa. Theatre and races 
are attractions for many visitors. 

Baden-Baden, 616 feet above the sea, has 11,000 
inhabitants. Its situation on the right bank of the 
little rivulet Oos, in a picturesque and romantic valley 
at the entrance to the Black Forest, is fascinating. It 
is surrounded by high hills, which are covered with 
fine forests. Being protected by these against the 
cool north and east winds, it has a mild, moderately 
moist, and very healthy climate. The mean tempera- 
ture of the year is 50 — of the winter, 35 ; there are 
no sudden changes of temperature. 

There are twenty wells, which furnish an abundance 
of water of 140 — 154 , mainly used for bathing, the 
baths being given at the large hotels and in the new 
bathing-house called Friedrichsbad. 

This new bathing-house is undoubtedly the grandest, 
most luxurious, and most perfect establishment of 
the kind in Germany, the most costly materials 
having been employed in its erection. It is most 



104 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

skilfully and practically planned and executed, and 
cannot be surpassed in point of elegance, comfort, 
and completeness of all arrangements. An abundance 
of the best Italian marble has been used for large 
swimming-baths and bathing-tubs, and all the rooms 
are painted and ornamented in the most elegant and 
tasteful manner. Extraordinary cleanliness prevails 
everywhere, and the attendance is excellent, the 
Bademeister (waiters) being well trained, and skilful in 
shampooing and kneading. The temperature of the 
various rooms is well regulated, and the heat in the 
Turkish and Russian baths is mild and agreeable. 

The lower story of the building contains a large 
vestibule, supported by four columns : on each side 
of it are Wildbdder — single bathing-rooms — for cold 
water treatment, an inhalation-room, and an electric 
bath. The rooms for single baths are spacious and 
airy, the tubs are constructed of one single block of 
Italian marble, and sunk into the floor of the room ; 
each room is provided with a douche and a shower- 
bath. The so-called Wildbdder are basins (18 feet by 
10 feet), about twenty inches deep, where several 
persons bathe at the same time, and the warm mineral 
water constantly runs in and off ; the floor is cemented, 
and covered with fine sand. Patients quietly lie on 
the floor during the whole time they remain in the 
bath, after the fashion prevailing at the spa in Wildbad, 
Wurtemberg (hence the name). The adjoining rooms 
have comfortable beds, for patients who need rest 
after the bath. The room for cold-water treatment 
contains all kinds of douches — lateral, ascending, 
descending, circular douches, &c, &c, and a cold water 



THE WATERING PLACES OF GERMANY. 105 

bath (10 feet by 5 feet), the walls of which are lined 
lined with blue porcelain. 

By a grand staircase we ascend to the second story. 
A lofty hall (200 feet by 26 feet) is used for pro- 
menading and as a reception-room. We now enter 
the most important and luxurious part of the building, 
namely, the large Turkish and Russian baths, swimming 
baths, &c, (called society baths, as a number of persons 
bathe together). The principal feature of these baths 
is the large cupola-room, situated directly in the centre 
of the building, fifty-five feet high, and beautifully 
constructed and frescoed ; it contains the grand cir- 
cular swimming-basin, twenty-six feet in diameter, 
built of Carrara marble, with circular steps leading 
down into the water. On each side of the cupola-room 
are the ladies' and the gentlemen's departments of 
the Turkish and Russian baths, each department con- 
taining two hot-air (Turkish) rooms,two vapour-rooms, 
a shampooing-room, a spacious shower-room, with a 
large number of douches of every shape, size, and 
temperature, and a cold swimming-bath, and a large 
oval swimming-bath (25 feet by 10 feet) of Italian 
marble, and filled with tepid mineral water. Large 
salons, with small apartments for dressing, and ele- 
gant reception-rooms, are adjacent to the bathing- 
rooms. 

The third story of the building contains vapour- 
baths for the use of single persons ; being very 
luxuriously fitted up, they are called princes' baths, 
and charged accordingly. On the same floor are 
also some second-class vapour-baths, for the use of 
persons who are not admitted to the society baths. 



106 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

This brief description will give only a faint idea of 
the establishment, but we are not allowed to devote 
more time and space to the subject, however interesting 
it may be to the numerous visitors of the celebrated 
spa. 

The bath life in Baden-Baden, as in all the Ger- 
man spas, concentrates at the conversation-house, the 
public gardens, and promenades. The conversation, 
or Kurhaus, is 370 feet long, and has a large portico, 
supported by eight Corinthian columns ; it contains 
a large number of magnificent salons, ornamented in 
grand and extravagant style, the largest of these 
being 160 feet long and 50 feet wide. One of these 
elegant salons is set apart as a reading-room, with 
about 150 newspapers and periodicals from all parts 
of the civilized world. Close by is the Trinkkalle, a 
noble edifice 270 feet long, with a magnificent portico, 
supported by sixteen Corinthian columns, and with a 
large rotunda, in which the mineral water is served by 
a young girl at a costly marble fountain. Here the 
patients assemble in the morning — drinking, pro- 
menading, and chatting. East of the conversation 
house is the bazaar — two rows of shops, where the 
best fancy articles manufactured at Paris, Vienna, and 
Berlin are sold at high prices. When the regular 
concert takes place in front of the conversation-house 
(between 3 to 4, and 8 to 10 p.m.), the promenades 
there are crowded with an elegant and gay multitude, 
some drinking coffee or taking supper, others walking 
about to see and to be seen : it is a grand sight to 
those who are fond of seeing it. When the concerts 
are over, the mass of visitors throng the splendid park, 



THE WATERING PLACES OF GERMANY. \OJ 

and the celebrated promenade on the left bank of the 
Oos, called the Lichtenthal Allee ; this is a long drive, 
planted with beautiful oak, linden, and maple-trees, 
interspersed with bosquets and fountains. The ele- 
gant carriages of the fashionable world, the numerous 
riders on horseback, and the immense crowd of 
stylishly-dressed people walking up and down, pre- 
sent a lively and interesting picture scarcely seen 
anywhere else. At the end of this drive we reach the 
little village Lichtenthal, with good restaurants, gar- 
dens, and an old monastery, inhabited by the Cister- 
cian nuns. Near by is the Caevilienberg, with fine 
walks and splendid views. 

The environs of Baden-Baden are so charming, and 
the places to which excursions are made, are so 
numerous and picturesque, that hardly any other 
spa can compete with this one. I mention only the 
old castle Hohenbaden, and the top of the Battert 
(1800 feet), the Ebersteinburg, Mercuriusberg (2240 
feet), Ebersteinschloss, Favorite. 

Hotels : Victoria Hotel, Badischer Hof, Englischer 
Hof, Europaeischer Hof, Russischer Hof. 
' Physicians : Drs. Baumgartner, Berton, Brunen, 
Gans, Heiligenthal, Knecht, Lichtenauer, Miiller, 
Schiel, Schliep, Schmidt, Schrander, Seelos, Wil- 
helmi, Frey. 

Access : From London, via Frankfort-on-the-Main ; 
from Paris, via Strasburg to Baden-Baden ; from 
Bremen and Hamburg, via Hanover, Cassel, Frank- 
fort, to Baden-Baden. 

There is a very pleasant trip from Baden-Baden, via 



108 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

Gernsbach (in the Black Forest) to Wildbad ; to 
those who are fond of much active exercise, it is 
recommendable as a march of eight hours. 

WlLDBAD, a very popular spa, in the kingdom of 
Wiirtemberg, lies in the charming and romantic valley 
of theEnz, 1323 feet above the sea; it has 3000 inhabi- 
tants. The air is pure and bracing. The whole place 
consists of two streets, which run along the banks of the 
river, the valley being very narrow, and bounded on 
both sides by wooded heights. The principal building 
is the Kurhaus, on the right bank of the river ; it is a 
fine edifice, built of red sandstone, and contains a 
large concert salon, restaurant, and reading-room 
(with the London Daily News) , all in the upper story, 
while the lower part is occupied by the baths. There 
are four society baths, fifty private baths for single 
persons, and five elegant bathing-rooms, called princes' 
baths, for high personages, or those patients who can 
afford to pay a high price. These princes' baths are very 
high and airy, with a domed ceiling and coloured 
skylight ; the bathing-tubs are round spacious exca- 
vations in the floor, lined with white porcelain. Marble 
steps lead down to the water. The bottom of the 
tub is covered with fine sand, on which the bathers 
repose, while the warm mineral water constantly 
enters from the bottom by means of pipes. In order 
to reach the thermal water, a number of holes are 
bored through the granite rocks to a depth of 100 and 
150 feet. The temperature of the springs is 93 to 
94 , and remains the same, no matter how deep the 
holes are bored. Thirty-six holes, in which iron pipes 
are placed, furnish the water for all the baths. 



THE WATERING PLACES OF GERMANY. IO9 

Spacious anterooms, elegantly fitted up, and provided 
with carpets, are attached to these princes' baths. There 
are four large common baths {society baths, Gesellshafts- 
bader), two for ladies two for gentlemen, each of them 
large enough to accommodate forty persons, and much 
patronized by patients who are fond of chatting and 
gossiping while in the bath. The depth of the water 
being only eighteen inches, patients must lie quietly 
on the soft sand of the floor, reclining against the 
wall of the basin. These baths are also filled with 
the thermal water by means of pipes, which were run 
through the granite ground to the proper depth, until 
the source of the water was struck. Patients need 
not refrain from using these baths, as the water 
is constantly renewed. The private bathing-rooms 
are neatly fitted up, and furnished with porcelain tubs. 
In every room is an apparatus for heating towels and 
sheets. 

On the whole, the arrangements are perfect, and the 
Government of Wurtemburg, which is the owner 
of the baths, deserves great credit for the exemplary 
manner in which all arrangements are completed. 

On the other side of the river, a few hundred feet 
distant from the Kurhaus, a large, neat, iron structure, 
called Trinkhalle (fountain-hall) has lately been 
erected ; here those patients who believe in the 
efficacy of the Wildbad water when internally em- 
ployed, are at liberty to drink as much of it as they 
choose. Fine shady walks in the rear of the Trink- 
halle lead to the surrounding woods. 

The number of visitors already exceeds 6000 ; about 
130,000 baths are given during the season. There are 



IIO WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

nice promenades along the banks of the Enz, and 
quite a number of pleasant excursions to the Black 
Forest afford ample opportunity for active exercise. 

Hotels : Badhotel, Bellevue, Bar, Hotel Keim, Krone. 

Physicians : Drs. Renz, Burkhard, Schonleber, 
Haussman sen. and jun. 

Access : From London, via Frankfort-on-the-Main 
and Heidelberg ; from Paris, vid Strasburg ; from 
Bremen or Hamburg, vid Cassel, Frankfort, Heidelberg 
to Wildbad. 

By a four hours' railway ride from Wildbad we reach 
Stuttgart, the capital of the kingdom of Wiirtem- 
berg, and close by is the spa — 

Cannstadt, a city with 7000 inhabitants, 600 feet 
above the sea. Owing to its mild climate it has 
already attained some reputation as a climatic health 
resort. It has fourteen wells, which supply a large 
number of bathing establishments. The arrangements 
are good, though on a small scale compared with 
those of the spas near the Rhine. There is a neat 
Kursaal, a long brick building, nicely frescoed, for 
promenading on rainy days. The establishment of 
Dr. Veiel for the cure of skin diseases, and Dr. Ebner's 
orthopaedic institute, enjoy a great and well-deserved 
reputation. As there are always so many American 
families who temporarily reside at Stuttgart, I con- 
sider it proper to draw their attention to a watering 
place so near by, which has such good and comfort- 
able arrangements. Cannstadt has also a large 
number of excellent boarding-schools. 

The road from Stuttgart to Cannstadt, through the 



THE WATERING PLACES OF GERMANY. Ill 

park (called Schlossgarteii) is a most magnificent 
promenade. Several royal palaces, with beautiful 
gardens, and fine walks, picture- galleries, &c, are in 
the immediate vicinity. 

Hotels : Hotel Herrman, Wilhelmsbad (with a 
good Russian and Turkish bath), Hotel Burger, Merz. 

Physicians : Drs. Kiel, Tritschler sen. and jun., 
Wadelin, Ruhle. 

Access : The same as to Wildbad. 

A place of great reputation, whose springs are 
very efficacious in cases of bronchial affections, and 
which Is very easily accessible to English and 
Americans visiting Munich, is — 

REICHENHALL, about three and a half hours from 
Munich, by the Munich-Salzburg railway. It is very 
picturesquely situated in the Bavarian Alps, 1407 
feet above the sea, surrounded on three sides by high 
mountains, of 4500 feet and 6000 feet elevation ; it is 
a small city with 3200 inhabitants. All arrangements 
are good, on a moderate scale, with moderate prices. 
There is the Kurhmis Achselmanstein with a fine 
garden, and opposite to it the Gradirhaus, where the 
strong salt water evaporates, the patients inhaling the 
air saturated with the small particles of salt ; the new 
park close by is very handsome. Although spa 
Reichenhall has not been longer than thirty years in 
existence, it is already one of the most popular of the 
German saline baths, being visited annually by nearly 
5000 patients. The air is very pure and invigorating, 
the mean temperature 64 . The treatment is much 
aided by the inhalation of compressed air, by whey 



112 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

and milk cures, peat baths, &c. The saline works 
of Reichenhall are the grandest of all in Germany. 
Fifteen strong salt springs issue from the earth at a 
depth of eighty feet, supplying not only the Reichen- 
hall establishments, but also by pipes of several 
miles' length, the baths at Rosenheim, Traunstein, 
and Kreuth. 

Visitors should not forget to visit the Saline, and to 
step down to the places where the springs break 
forth. 

There is much opportunity for pleasant excursions 
in the neighbourhood ; everywhere the scenery is 
highly interesting and romantic. The beautiful city 
of Salzburg is reached in one hour by railway ; 
Berchtesgaden in two and a half hours by stage ; thence, 
by a short promenade of one and a half hour, we 
reached the celebrated Kbnigssee, the most romantic, 
perhaps, of all Alpine lakes. 

Hotels : Kurhaus Achselmannstein, Louisenbad, 
Marienbad, Maximiliansbad, Bad Kirchberg, Hotel 
Burkert, Post, &c. 

Physicians : Drs. v. Liebig, Geebock, Schneider, 
Camerer, Rapp, Pachmeyer, Bergson, Solger, Schmidt, 
Kramer, Burdach. 

Access: From London, via Frankfort and Munich ; 
from Paris, via Strasburg, Stuttgart, and Munich ; from 
Bremen and Hamburg, via Munich to Reichenhall. 

There is another Alpine bath in the Bavarian Alps, 
which deserves to be noticed, and recommended to 
those who prefer a quiet, secluded place, refined 
society, and high Alpine region. Such a place is — 



THE WATERING PLACES OF GERMANY. II3 

Kreuth, 2910 feet above the sea; it is a beautiful, 
lonely spot, surrounded by steep mountains, with a 
pure, fresh, and moist air. There are no other houses 
than the buildings for bathing and boarding, which 
present a very fine appearance ; in fact everything 
looks neat and pleasant, and prices for board are 
very moderate. The place is much patronized by a 
good class of people, but for a prolonged stay it is 
apt to become dull to English and Americans. It has 
come into great reputation by its excellent wheys, 
which are not surpassed by the best wheys of 
Switzerland. Salt baths are given, the brine being 
carried up from Rosenheim and Reichenhall. The 
mountain bitters, prepared from herbs growing on the 
surrounding mountains, are very much praised and 
used. Persons affected with bronchial diseases are 
the patrons of Kreuth. 

Those fond of excursions may visit the charming 
Tegernsee and the romantic Achensee. 

Physicians : Drs. Beetz, Stephan. 

Access : From Munich, by railway, via Holzkirchen, 
to station Schaftlach (one and a half mile), thence by 
stage in three and a half hours to Kreuth. 

Silesia. 

The fourth group of German spas embraces the 
Silesian watering places, situated in the Prussian 
province. They are scarcely known to English and 
Americans, that region being really a terra incognita 
to English and American tourists. Still the Riesen- 
gebirge (Giant Mountains) deserve to be visited by 

I 



114 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

them, owing to their picturesque scenery, and the plain 
good living in this part of Germany, which, it cannot 
be denied, is a little out of the route of the vast crowd 
of tourists ; this perhaps is the reason why I have not 
met any English or Americans in these mountains. 

However, as many of these reside at Berlin, or 
Dresden, and some may be advised to visit one of the 
Silesian spas, which are easily reached by railway 
from these cities, I shall mention for their informa- 
tion those places which have the most efficacious 
wells and enjoy the greatest popularity. The arrange- 
ments are generally good, but on a small scale com- 
pared to the great spas in Western Germany ; prices 
are moderate enough, though not so low as many 
might expect them to be in a part of the country 
which is so little favoured by the majority of tourists 
and invalids. These baths have the advantage of a 
plain bath-life and good society ; there is no display, 
no elegance, and no extravagance, as there is at the 
Rhenish baths ; they are frequented almost exclusively 
by the middle classes of North Germany. The most 
popular of these spas is — 

OBERSALZBRUNN, or Salzbrunn, a small city with 
5800 inhabitants, situated 1200 feet above the sea, in 
romantic valley, surrounded by hills, but open to the 
north-west. The air is tonic and invigorating, but 
there are cold winds and sudden changes of tempera- 
ture. Excellent wheys are prepared. There are nice 
promenades, and plenty of opportunity is offered for 
pleasant excursions. Number of visitors about 3000. 

Hotels 1 Flammender Stern, Krone, Brunnenhof, 
Sonne, Kurhaus. 



THE WATERING PLACES OF GERMANY. 115 

Physicians : Drs. Biefel, Hoffmann, Straehler, Stem- 
pelmann, Valentiner. 

Access: From Dresden or Berlin, via Gorlitz to 
station Salzbrunn. 

By a three and a half hours' ride on the Silesian 
mountain railway, we travel from Salzbrunn to 
Hirschberg ; by a further ride of one and a half hours 
by stage we reach — 

Warmbrunn, next to Salzbrunn the most popular 
of the Silesian spas. It is a small place with 2500 
inhabitants, situated 1100 feet above the sea, near 
the northern slope of the Riesengebirge ; the air is 
invigorating, but at times a little rough. The arrange- 
ments are good ; there is a handsome Kurhaus and a 
small bazaar, and quite a number of promenades, 
The surroundings are very pleasant, and afford much 
opportunity for excursions without danger of great 
fatigue. Warmbrunn is an excellent starting-point for 
a trip through the Riesengebirge. Such a tour, if 
made by short trips, is highly interesting and invigo- 
rating, without overtaxing the strength of invalids 
who are not too much debilitated. 

Hotels : Hotel de Prusse, Schwarzer Adler, Schnee- 
koppe, Stadt London. 

Physicians: Drs. Franz, Herzog, Hohne, Lange, 
Luchs, Nuchten. 

Access: From Berlin or Dresden, via Gorlitz to 
Hirschberg, thence by stage to Warmbrunn. 

Starting from Salzbrunn in a southerly direction, 
we reach by a two and a half hours' railway ride the 

I 2 



Il6 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

city of Glatz ; thence after a three hours' stage drive, 
we arrive at — 

Landeck, a sulphur bath, 1389 feet above the sea, 
in a very romantic valley of the Glatz Mountains. 
The climate, though a mountain climate, is mild and 
invigorating, the north and east winds being kept off 
by the mountains. There are two large common 
baths immediately over the springs, and forty single 
baths. Wheys and mountain bitters are also pre- 
scribed. About 3000 patients annually visit the spa. 
It has a splendid park, and excellent opportunity for 
quite a number of excursions into the picturesque 
Glatz Mountains. 

Hotels ; Lowe, Deutsches Haus, Schlossel. 

Physicians : Drs. Langner, Wehse, Schiitze, Joseph, 
Astrowicz. 

Access : From Berlin or Dresden, via Gorlitz and 
Konigszelt to Glatz, thence by stage to Landeck. 

West of Glatz are two other baths, which are very 
popular, both situated in the Glatz Mountains, Reinerz 
and Cudorva. 

REINERZ, 1700 feet above the sea, in a charming 
valley, has the reputation of enjoying immunity from 
tubercular affections. The air is pure, but sudden 
changes of temperature often occur. The bathing 
arrangements are very good, the promenades and 
environs very fine. About 2600 visitors congregate 
there every season. 

Hotels : Bar, Deutsches Haus. 

Physicians : Drs. Berg, Drescher, Seech i, Kolbe, 
Zdralek. 



THE WATERING PLACES OF GERMANY. WJ 

Access: From Berlin' or Dresden, to Glatz, thence 
by stage in two hours to Reinerz. 

CUDOWA, 1235 feet above the sea, on the southern 
slope of the Heuschauer Mountains (2900 feet), not 
far from the railway station Nachod, is a small place 
with 700 inhabitants. The climate, though mild, is 
tonic and invigorating. It has nice promenades and 
good arrangements for bathing ; there is a new 
establishment for peat baths, and a new and excellent 
Russian vapour bath. The place is becoming popular, 
the number of visitors already amounting to 1200 
annually 

Hotels : Waidmannsruh, Stern, Sonne, Neue Welt. 

Physicians : Drs. Scholz, Jacob. 

Access: From Dresden or Berlin, via Gorlitz and 
Ruhbauk to station Nachod, thence by stage to 
Cudowa. 

Appendix. 

There are several large cities in Germany which 
have been often mentioned in the preceding chapter 
as starting-points to the various watering places, 
viz : Bremen, Hamburg, Cologne, Frankfort- on -the- 
Main, Munich, Dresden, Berlin. English and Ameri- 
cans arriving at one or the other of these cities, and 
desirous of taking a short rest, may wish to know the 
names of some hotels. For the information of those 
not in possession of a travelling guide, I shall give 
the names, of those hotels which Baedeker, the most 
reliable of all guides, has marked as the best in his 
guide-books. 



Il8 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

Bremen: Hillmann's Hotel, Hotel de l'Europe, Grand 
Hotel du Nord, Stadt Frankfurt, Hotel Kiedenburg. 

Hamburg : Hotel de TEurope, Streit's Hotel, 
Victoria Hotel, Kronprinz, Hotel St. Petersburg, 
Alster Hotel, Zing's Hotel, Hoefer's Hotel. 

Cologne: Hotel du Nord, Hotel Disch, Mainzer 
Hof, Pariser Hof, Wiener Hof, Victoria Hotel, Hotel 
St. Paul, Hotel Ernst. 

Frankfort-on-thc-Main: Frankfurter Hof,Russischer 
Hof, Englischer Hof, Briisseler Hof, Landsburg. 

Munich : Vier Jahreszeiten, Bayrischer Hof, Hotel 
Bellevue, Hotel Detzer, Englischer Hof, Rheinischer 
Hof. 

Dresden : Hotel Bellevue, Victoria Hotel, Hotel de 
Saxe, Kronprinz, Stadt Wien, Grand Union-Hotel, 
Stadt Berlin, Stadt Gotha, Weber's Hotel. 

Berlin : Kaiserhof, Hotel Royal, Meinhardt's Hotel, 
Hotel du Nord, Hotel de Rome, British Hotel, Hotel 
d'Angleterre, Hotel de Russie. 



THE WATERING PLACES OF AUSTRIA. I 19 



CHAPTER II. 

THE WATERING PLACES OF AUSTRIA. 

The German provinces of the Austrian Empire have 
an abundance of very efficacious mineral springs, 
especially Bohemia, Salzburg, and Styria. Some of 
these waters, as those of Karlsbad and Teplitz, have 
for hundreds of years enjoyed a world-wide reputa- 
tion, and are visited by large numbers of patients 
from all parts of the globe ; while others, less reputed, 
are mainly patronized by Austrians and Germans, 
and some almost exclusively by Austrians. All these 
spas are well managed, their bathing arrangements 
generally being even preferable to those of many 
German spas. The bathing-rooms are quite elegant, 
the tubs being mostly of marble, porcelain, or stone ; 
the attendants are everywhere very well trained, and 
very accommodating, and are easily satisfied with a 
small Trinkgeld (gratuity) ; even at most of the 
common (society) baths, where only a small fee is 
charged, patients on coming from the bathing-room 
are very carefully rubbed off with towels and sheets, 
warmed on a large stove. 

There is no such display of style as at the Rhenish 
spas, not even at Karlsbad or Ischl, the most fashion- 
able of the Austrian baths. Even at these, we do not 



120 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

find the extravagance or the high life of Baden-Baden 
or Homburg. But there is an excellent tone at most 
of the Austrian spas, and generally we meet a very 
good society, especially at the smaller ones. The 
inhabitants are complaisant and obliging ; food and 
drink, a very important matter in the eyes of every 
Austrian, are everywhere well prepared, &n& first-class 
at all the better hotels and restaurants. Accommo- 
dations in hotels and lodging-houses are comfortable, 
though perhaps not so elegant and complete as at 
the great German spas. Strangers travelling in 
Austria, feel far more comfortable and better pleased 
than anywhere else ; this, at least, is my experience, 
after having travelled in Austria so many years, and 
having conversed with so many patients and tourists. 
It is really surprising that English and Americans, 
who are so sagacious in ferreting out pleasant and 
comfortable places, have so much neglected the 
beautiful regions of Tyrol, Salzburg, Styria, &c. 
More picturesque and delightful spots can scarcely 
be found anywhere else than in the Alpine regions of 
these Austrian provinces. 

A patient wishing to resort to an Austrian spa, 
has the choice of any climate he may consider suit- 
able for his case. He can repair to a spa with a 
warm, mild air, only a few hundred feet above the 
level of the sea ; or he may betake himself to the 
invigorating air of an elevation of 1500 feet or 2000 
feet ; or to an Alpine climate of 3000 feet elevation. 

We shall now commence our trip through the 
principal spas of German- Austria. They can be 
classified into three groups. The first and northern 



THE WATERING PLACES OF AUSTRIA. 121 

group comprises the Bohemian spas : Karlsbad, 
Marienbad, Teplitz, Franzensbad, Johannisbad,Elster ; 
the last-named, although situated in Saxony close 
to the Bohemian frontier, is generally ranked among 
the Bohemian spas, to which it really belongs, owing 
to its location and chemical properties. 

The spas of the second group are situated in the 
central portion of German- Austria (Upper and Lower 
Austria and Salzburg). Baden near Vienna, Voslau, 
Hull, Ischl, Aussee, and Gastein, belong to this class. 

The third group embraces the Styrian baths : 
Tobelbad, Gleichenberg, Rohitsch, Tuffer, Neuhaus, 
Rdmerbad, and the little spa Villach in Karnthen 
(Carinthia), all these places being located in the 
southern part of German- Austria. 

i. The Bohemian Spas. 

The most celebrated and most important of these 
— nay, I may truly say, of all continental baths, and 
the one to which we shall at once direct our steps, is — 

KARLSBAD, the queen of the European spas. 

The importance of the place, and its world-wide 
fame, may excuse the author for devoting to its 
description a little more time and a larger space than 
to any other spa. We shall give a somewhat detailed 
account of the arrangements, for the benefit of English 
and Americans, who for some few years have ex- 
tensively patronized this celebrated spa. 

Karlsbad is situated in the romantic, narrow valley 
of the Tepel, 1200 feet above the sea (371 metres). 
It is a wealthy, industrious city, with 12,000 inhabi- 



122 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

tants, and nearly 900 houses, which are built on both 
sides of the river : it is surrounded by high hills 
covered with pine and beech trees. The air is pure 
and salubrious ; north and north-west winds prevail ; 
the weather, is variable, and rapid changes of tempe- 
rature often occur. The mornings and evenings are 
generally very cool, even during the warmest portion 
of the season, the mean temperature being 43 . 
During the day it is often very warm and close. 
This spa is considered a healthy city, as it never yet 
has been visited by any epidemic, cholera not 
excepted. 

Karlsbad, which is endowed with the most powerful 
thermal waters on the face of the globe, has existed 
as a watering place for more than 500 years. During 
the first two centuries of its existence, the waters 
were only used for bathing, ten or eleven hours of the 
day then being devoted to this occupation, until the 
skin of the patient was entirely corroded. Such a 
corrosion was considered the crisis, and was hailed 
as the return of health. In 1520, by recommendation 
of Dr. Payer, patients commenced to drink the water, 
and bathing gradually became so unpopular, that it 
was entirely abandoned in the middle of the last 
century. Immense quantities of water were pre- 
scribed by the bath doctors, and swallowed by the 
unfortunate patients. They commenced with 15 or 
18 cups (about 120 ounces), increasing the number to 
30, and even 40 cups (over 200 ounces) daily. The 
whole quantity was drunk at home, every active 
exercise being forbidden. This irrational treatment 
was abolished by the exertion of an eminent physician, 



THE WATERING PLACES OF AUSTRIA. 



23 



Dr. Becher (1725 — 1792), who considerably reduced 
the quantity of the water, at the same time recom- 
mending patients to drink it at the wells, and to take 
active exercise. It was he who again advised bathing 
as an essential part of the cure. At the beginning of 
this century, it still was customary to drink from 10 
to 15 cups, but gradually this number was reduced 
to eight and four, and even less, namely, half a cup 
once or twice in the morning. I am under the im- 
pression that the bath physicians sometimes go into 
the other extreme, i. e., of reducing the quantity of 
the water to a minimum, relying wholly on the diet, 
change of air, &c, as sufficient agencies in effecting 
a cure. 

The official records of Karlsbad show a wonderful 
increase in the number of visitors since 1756, as will 
be seen by the following table : — 



Year. 


Patients. 


Year. 


Patients. 


Year. 


Patients 


1756 


134 


I80O 


744 


1850 


4,227 


I760 


l62 


l8lO 


1255 


i860 


6,366 


I770 


322 


l820 


146 1 


1870 


9,729 


I780 


225 


I830 


2448 


1875 


15,642 


I790 


368 


1840 


2882 


1878 


16,158 



The total number of patients, and persons accom- 
panying them, in 1875, was more than 20,000, tourists 
not included. These visitors came from all parts of 
the globe, the majority, of course, from Europe, 
and principally from Germany ; however, America, 
Asia, Africa, and even Australia, are well represented 
on the official list. In 1877, the names of 436 English- 
men and 334 Americans were recorded as having 
been under medical treatment at the Karlsbad springs. 



124 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

With great pride the annalists of Karlsbad enumerate 
the vast number of emperors, kings, princes, generals, 
and other celebrated personages, who have patronized 
that time-honoured spa ; to mention them would be 
of no interest whatsoever to English and Americans. 
Only three names shall be mentioned : Goethe, Schiller, 
and Beethoven ; these belong to mankind. 

In 1844, the export of the Karlsbad mineral waters 
commenced ; at present, over 1,000,000 quart bottles 
are annually sent to all parts of the world. 

There is one great difference between Karlsbad 
and the other Bohemian baths on one side, and the 
Rhenish baths on the other, namely, while the latter 
are visited by a large number of persons seeking 
amusement and a luxurious life, Karlsbad is almost 
exclusively patronized by persons who are really 
suffering, and desirous of being restored to health. 
By some it has therefore been styled " the hospital of 
the whole civilized world," and this, in truth, it is ; 
and a regular, thorough bath treatment at Karlsbad, 
is by no means a fancy cure. Already in [522 Dr. 
Payer said, " Nature has created this bath for 
patients, not for anybody's lust or amusement." 
There is no extravagance either in amusements or 
fashionable display ; there are no races, nor anything 
else that is apt to create excitement. 

However, the reader should not become impressed 
with the idea that bath life at Karlsbad is dull, gloomy, 
and stern, owing to the large number of visitors who 
are all suffering from severe diseases ; by no means. 
The sight of the chequered multitude, assembled from 
all parts of the globe, each one inspired with the 



THE WATERING PLACES OF AUSTRIA. 12 5 

hope of a speedy recovery by the aid of the far- 
famed springs, many having already experienced 
their beneficial influence ; the beautiful environs, the 
various entertainments — all these tend to gratify the 
patient's mind, and to produce cheerful and hopeful 
feelings. 

Bath life at Karlsbad is somewhat different from 
that at the spas hitherto described, there being really 
no centre of attraction in the shape of a Kurgarten 
and Kurhaics, situated in a convenient place. The 
Karlsbad Kurhaus is somewhat distant from the 
principal springs and the centre of the city ; and is 
not surrounded by shady promenades. The thousands 
of patients who drink the waters are obliged to do so 
at the different places where the springs issue ; and 
after having finished their morning task, they disperse 
to the various coffee-gardens. In the afternoon and 
evening concerts are given at several places, and by 
different bands, though those given by the Kurcapelle, 
under the able leadership of Mr. Labitzky, attract the 
largest audience. 

The great mass of patients assemble in the morning 
at the Sprudel and the Miihlbrunnen, especially at 
the latter, the next favoured of all the springs. Here 
the concourse of people is really astonishing, and 
affords an interesting spectacle, especially to English 
and Americans, who eye with surprise the strange 
faces, and yet stranger costumes and manners, of 
patients coming from various climates, and of various 
nations. Grand new colonnades, built at an expense 
of half a million florins, afford shelter from rain or 
sun to the hundreds of invalids who, step by step, 



126 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

slowly advance, until the fountain is reached. These 
colonnades are a grand structure, but somewhat too 
heavy, and when many persons crowd there, the air 
soon becomes close. It is advisable to drink early in 
the morning, in order to avoid delay. The Sprudel 
colonnade, which, until the fall of 1878, was an old 
wooden structure, has lately been replaced by a grand 
edifice, built of iron and glass. It is a magnificent 
hall of immense size, and was erected during the 
winter of 1878-79, at an expense of 228,000 florins. 
Many high and richly-gilded pilasters, and a large 
number of exotic plants, which are placed along the 
walls, give a gay appearance to the interior of the 
hall, and delight the eyes of the hundreds of visitors 
who throng the place every morning, gazing with 
amazement at that far-famed Sprudel, whose boiling 
waters boisterously break forth from the depth of the 
earth, rising as high as three or four feet, ascending 
and descending, foaming and reeking, and throwing 
thick clouds of vapour up to the openings in the ceiling 
of the building. It is a grand sight, and many stand 
there admiring this grand phenomenon, and medi- 
tating upon the nature of it. The following explana- 
tion, given by Dr. Hlawaeck, the historiographer of 
Karlsbad, seems to be the most plausible : — " The 
atmospheric waters are collected at a depth of about 
7000 feet, in the crevices of the granite mountain 
range on which the city of Karlsbad is located. The 
natural heat of the earth at such a depth being 167 , 
the waters assume the same temperature, and with 
the aid of a large quantity of carbonic acid, dissolve 
and decompose a portion of the soluble mineral con- 



THE WATERING PLACES OF AUSTRIA. \2J 

stituents of the granite ; saturated with these, they 
are raised by the pressure of the subterranean gases, 
and burst forth." 

An extension of the Sprudel colonnade, constructed 
in the same style, encloses the Hygeiensquelle. A 
statue of the goddess Hygeia is placed in the centre 
of this extension building, surrounded by two beautiful 
palm-trees, and other exotic plants. 

Near the Miihlbrunnen a large costly building has 
been erected, called the Kurhaits. It is a grand 
structure, but not elegant in appearance, and does not 
at all compare with the tasteful buildings of a similar 
kind at the German spas ; the lower story is used for 
bathing purposes, the bathing-rooms being high and 
airy, and some of them, called salon baths, are fitted 
up with some elegance. There is also a neat recep- 
tion-room on the same floor. The upper story is 
occupied by a large concert salon, restaurant, and 
three reading-rooms, which are liberally provided with 
a large number of newspapers and periodicals. Great 
care has been taken to supply them with a large 
number of English neswpapers, as the following list 
will demonstrate : London Times, Standard, Punch, 
Illustrated Loiidon News, New York Herald, New 
York Tribune, American Register, Galignani's Mes- 
senger. 

Readers pay a small fee for admission. 

A little farther off is another large building, the 
Miliiair-Krankenhaus, a hospital for soldiers of the 
Austrian army, and close by a fine Kurgarten has 
been laid out, and planted with a large number of 
trees : as this little park is yet without shade and 



128 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

without other attractions, patients do not much 
patronize it. It is intended to erect there a large 
elegant pavilion for concerts, which will undoubtedly 
render this part of the city more attractive. 

The baths, which yield a large income to the city, 
are chiefly taken in the Kurhaus, which contains 
seventy-five bathing-rooms for mineral water baths, 
fourteen for peat baths, and two for vapour baths 
There is another bathing house adjoining the Sprudel 
colonnade, and another in the temporary Stadthaus ; 
they contain twenty-nine bathing-rooms. A new 
bathing-house for peat baths, which are increasing 
very much in popularity, has just been commenced, 
and will be finished in 1880. The peat is taken from 
the celebrated peat deposits at Franzensbad, where 
the city of Karlsbad owns a large tract of peat-land. 

The following prices are charged for baths : — For a 
first-class bath(sa/on bath) 1 J florin; for a second-class 
bath, 1 florin (after 3 o'clock, only \ florin is charged) ; 
for a Russian vapour bath, 1 florin ; for a peat bath, 2 
to 3 florins, according to the quantity of peat used for 
it (100 to 200 pounds). Sheets and towels, and warm- 
ing the bathing-room, are charged extra. 

For further information, I also add the Kurtaxe, i. e. 
the fee charged to every visitor for the privilege of 
drinking as much mineral water as he chooses. Every 
stranger who remains longer than eight days at 
Karlsbad must pay this fee, whether he undergoes a 
bath treatment or not. Visitors are clsssified, as class 
L, II., III., and IV. Class No. I. comprises the rich ; 
and as all English, and especially all Americans who 
visit Europe, are considered rich, they are registered 



THE WATERING PLACES OF AUSTRIA. 120, 

as No. I, and must pay 10 florins Kurtaxe ; servants 
and children under fifteen years are charged 1 florin. 
Physicians and their families pay no tax. Another 
tax, called Musik-Taxe, is imposed for the benefit of 
the band ; it amounts to 5 to 14 florins for each party 
residing at Karlsbad during the season. There is no 
exemption from this tax, even physicians being 
obliged to pay 3 florins for the music. 

Karlsbad, though being devoid of the usual Kur- 
garten, with its shady promenades— the pride of almost 
all German watering places — and the centre of bath 
life, is surrounded by so many beautiful forests which 
form one grand park around the city, that the want of 
a Kurgarten is scarcely felt. There is hardly any 
watering place on the continent which has such an 
abundance of shady walks and promenades as Karls- 
bad has, their entire length having been estimated to 
be seven German miles (about thirty English miles). 
They are very well laid out, and gradually lead to the 
highest points, thereby enabling even feeble persons 
to ascend the hills without much exertion, and to 
enjoy the fresh, bracing air. During the warmest days 
of the season these walks, which are kept in the best 
order, and liberally provided with a large number 
of benches, afford pleasant, cool resting-places to 
invalids. 

One of the most delightful promenades of the city 
is the A lie Wiese (old meadow), planted with magnifi- 
cent old chestnut-trees, and embellished on both sides 
by shops, exhibiting the latest and handsomest 
specimens of Bohemian glass ware, garnets, laces, and 
other articles manufactured in Bohemia. This is the 

K 



130 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

Bazaar of Karlsbad, which is always thronged by a 
large concourse of strangers, especially in the morning, 
when they stop there in order to drink the aromatic 
coffee in front of the celebrated Cafe Elephant, or 
pass through on the way to the various coffee-gardens 
outside the city ; or in the evening, when they return 
from concerts and excursions. 

Adjoining this promenade is the Puppsche A llee, a 
large square planted with acacia-trees, and adorned 
with nice flower-beds ; on one side is the elegant cafe, 
restaurant, and concert-hall of Pupp Brothers, a grand 
and very well managed establishment ; on the other 
side a handsome spacious colonnade, constructed of 
iron and glass, belonging to the same proprietors ; a 
pavilion is in the centre of it for the accommodation 
of the Kurkapelle, which plays there twice a week. 
This square is at present the principal resort of the 
visitors, especially when the afternoon concerts are 
advertised. 

Leaving this square, we enter the Kiesweg (gravel 
road), a fine promenade, with very old, large trees, 
and the lively little Tessel on the left side, while the 
right side is bounded by high hills covered with pine 
and beech-trees. On this walk we first pass the cafe 
and restaurant Sans-souci, an elegant building situated 
on one of the hills, with a fine large garden and a 
pretty little theatre. About five minutes further up 
is a bridge, the Karlsbriicke. Here the Kiesweg ends 
and the public road commences, with lawns, fields, and 
hills alternating on both sides. Directly behind the 
bridge a short promenade leads to two of the most 
popular coffee-gardens, the one called Schbnbrunn, 



THE WATERING PLACES OF AUSTRIA. 131 

the other located on a hill, called Schweizerhof. The 
latter especially is a charming spot, with fresh, pure 
air. Continuing our promenade along the banks of 
the river, we pass two other much-favoured coffee- 
gardens, the Posthof and Trundschaftssaal, and finally 
reach the last and most picturesquely situated of all, 
the Kaiserpark, a lovely spot, with handsome flower- 
beds and fine scenery. 

From the large number of coffee-gardens, the 
reader will surely infer the great importance attributed 
to resorts of that kind, and this is really the case. 
Karlsbad's coffee-houses enjoy the reputation of pre- 
paring the best coffee ; nowhere else on the continent 
can you drink such an aromatic coffee with such 
excellent cream, and nowhere else are you so speedily 
and cheerfully served as there by the young, active 
Karlsbad coffee-girls, who promptly execute your 
orders, eager to earn a Trinkgeld (gratuity) of a few 
kreutzers. 

Ascending the hills behind Pupp's restaurant, and 
turning to the right, we reach, by a short promenade 
through the woods, the so-called Hirschensprung 
(1520 feet) with a cafe, and a fine view of the valleys 
of the Tessel and the Eger. Descending from here, 
we arrive at the Fdgerkaus, a little cafe, once very 
popular with the guests, but at present chiefly visited 
by the Karlsbad burghers. Thence by a pleasant 
promenade of about an hour, gradually ascending, we 
reach the top of the Aberg (1929 feet), one of the 
highest points in the immediate neighbourhood of 
Karlsbad. A new coffee-house has lately been erected 
there. There is also a high tower, from which those 

K 2 



132 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

who take the trouble of ascending can obtain a fine 
view of the surrounding country. 

Little waggons, drawn by donkeys, carry invalids 
to all these points for moderate charges. 

There are some other interesting points on the hills 
on the left bank of the Tessel, which are very much 
frequented on account of their pleasant situation, as 
Findlaters Tempel, a wooden structure, erected by 
Lord Findlater, Franz-JosepJis Hbhe, where a mag- 
nificent high tower, lately erected, affords a fine view, 
Freundsckaftskohe, Bellevue, &c, &c. 

Just opposite to the Hirschensprung, on the right 
bank of the Tessel, is one of the most popular resorts, 
on a mountain called the Drei-Krenzberg. We reach 
it by ascending the hill directly behind the Catholic 
church ; passing through the Panorama, a restaurant 
with a handsome garden and fine view, and crossing 
the Prager Strasse, we enter the woods leading to the 
top of the mountain, which we reach by half an hour's 
pleasant walk. On the Drei-Kreuzberg (1693 feet) 
we have a magnificent view. At our feet, in the 
valley below, we see the city and the surrounding 
hills ; on our right, the charming valley of the Eger, 
with numerous villages and rich fields ; in the back- 
ground the Fichtelgebirge ; in the east the Erzgebirge. 
On a plateau, near the top, is a nice little cafe, and a 
camera obscura, to which you are admitted by paying 
a fee of ten kreuzers. 

There are many other picturesque places in 
the immediate neighbourhood of the city. Dr. 
Hlawacek, author of an excellent monograph on 
Karlsbad (13th edition, 1880, Hans Feller, Karlsbad), 



THE WATERING PLACES OF AUSTRIA. 1 33 

enumerates twenty, and more, which can easily be 
reached on foot, besides fifteen others, easily accessible 
by carriage. But it would exceed the limits of this 
treatise to dwell any longer on the description of these 
places. One, however, must be mentioned, on ac- 
count of the popularity of its waters ; this is GlESS- 
HilBEL, a lovely little place, reached by a drive of an 
hour and a half. It consists of three houses, con- 
taining forty rooms for patients. It is very much 
frequented by excursionists from Karlsbad, has a 
Kurhaus, colonnade, bathing establishment, and fine 
promenades in the woods. The sale of the mineral 
water is very large. This water is a very refreshing 
drink, and is much used in Karlsbad instead of 
common water. 

The inhabitants of Karlsbad are very polite and 
obliging in their intercourse with the guests, and, like 
all the inhabitants of all other watering places, they 
try to make as much money out of the strangers as 
possible. Living is not cheap, though any one ac- 
quainted with the locality, and in the habit of econo- 
mizing, can live on a comparatively small outlay of 
money. English and Americans particularly are 
very welcome, and must be on their guard, especially 
with regard to hotel-keepers, who usually take ad- 
vantage of strangers ignorant of the language, laws, 
and regulations of the place. According to the latter, 
guests in hotels pay for rooms by the day, if they have 
not made a special arrangement for a longer time, 
and hotel-keepers have no right to charge for a full 
week. The best way is to hire a furnished room for 
the whole term of four or six weeks. The rent is 



134 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

generally paid weekly, some landlords charging an 
extra fee for service ; it is always expedient to settle 
this point when hiring the room. Servants always 
expect a gratuity, no matter whether the landlord 
charges for it on the bill or not. Most of the hotels 
have furnished rooms to let by the week or month, 
but in general it is better to live in a private house, 
there being mostly less noise and more comfort. 

The price for furnished rooms varies according to 
situation and time ; from May 15 to July 15 prices 
are high, afterwards lower. A single room can be had 
for 5,10, and 20 florins per week, two or four rooms 
for 20 to 50 florins, large apartments for 80, 100 and 
200 florins per week. Strangers should keep in mind 
that at every restaurant or cafe they must pay a small 
gratuity {Trinkgeld) to the waiters ; even the cashier 
(Zahlkellner), who receives your money, expects 
something of the kind. Generally a few kreutzers 
are sufficient. This habit is very disgraceful and 
annoying, but we are obliged to submit to it. 

In regard to the mode of living, diet, exercise, 
bathing, &c, I refer to the first part of this treatise ; 
all rules laid down in former chapters should be 
rigidly obeyed by patients undergoing a treatment at 
the Karlsbad springs. The great reputation and the 
splendid results attained by these powerful waters are 
mainly due to the strict observance of the rigid 
dietetic regimen prescribed and enforced by the bath- 
physicians. 

Entertainments are amply provided for in the 
shape of the regular daily concerts of the Kurkapelle, 
of extra entertainments given by eminent artists and 



THE WATERING PLACES OF AUSTRIA. 1 35 

singers, or by the bands of Hungarian gypsies, or of 
the regiments of the Austrian army. There are also 
two theatres, where comedies and operettas are per- 
formed, and every Saturday evening a reunion takes 
place at the Kurhaus (ladies are requested not to 
appear in full dress). 

A large number of newspapers can also be read at 
Pupp's cafe ; English books can be obtained at the 
circulating library of Mr. Feller (Alte Wiese), 

Hotels : Zum goldenen Schild, Hotel Anger, Stadt 
Hannover, Paradies, Hotel de Russie. 

Restaurants : Puppe, Salle de Saxe, Kurhaus, 
San-souci, Loib, &c, &c. There are good restaurants 
in all hotels. 

Physicians : Hochberger, Gans senior, Seegen, 
Preiss, Anger, Zimmer, Krauss, Meyer, Hoffmann, 
Neubauer, Hlawacek, London, Schiffer. 

Access : From London and Paris, via Cologne, to 
Leipzig and Karlsbad, or via Frankfort on the Main, 
Bamberg, Eger to Karlsbad ; from Bremen or Ham- 
burg, via Magdeburg, Leipzig to Karlsbad. 

By a three hours' railway ride from Karlsbad, we 
reach 

Teplitz, Avith the suburb Schonau, next to Karls- 
bad the most celebrated and most frequented spa of 
Austria ; situated in a wide, pleasant valley, 700 feet 
above the sea. It is an old, industrious city, with 
14,000 inhabitants, and is one of the oldest watering 
places of Europe, having celebrated in 1862 its 
eleventh centenary as a spa. It is a quiet and com- 
paratively cheap place, with splendid gardens, ex- 



136 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

cellent bathing arrangements and beautiful environs. 
Like Karlsbad, it is visited by invalids from all parts 
of the globe, the average number of patients being 
10,000 annually, who take 280,000 baths. The 
regular season lasts from the 1st of May until the 
end of September, but the bathing establishments are 
open during the whole year, and prices are reduced 
during the winter. Patients can take baths even on 
very cold days without any danger of taking cold, as 
most of the bathing-houses have furnished rooms for 
the accommodation of bathers, who can retire to their 
apartments immediately after the bath, thereby 
avoiding any exposure. There are seven large 
bathing-houses in Teplitz and two in Schonau, but 
all are so crowded in the height of the season that 
patients who neglect to apply for a bathing-room 
several days before entering on the bath-course have 
scarcely any chance of getting accommodated at a 
convenient hour. The arrangements in general are 
complete ; the rooms are large and high, the bathing- 
tubs of marble or porcelain ; to bathe in them is 
indeed a great luxury. 

There is a Trinkhalle, where all kinds of bottled 
mineral waters are sold and drunk. A Kurgarten, 
situated in the centre of the city, is the point of 
attraction for visitors in the morning from six till 
eight o'clock, while the band is executing popular 
compositions of celebrated masters. Here is the 
Kursalon (Kurhaus) with two spacious reading-rooms 
supplied with a large number of English, French, and 
German newspapers ; also the theatre, and the 
magnificent Kaiserbad, with elegantly furnished apart- 



THE WATERING PLACES OF AUSTRIA. 1 37 

ments and splendid bathing-rooms. From 12 till 
1 p.m. the fashionable world crowd in the beautiful 
park of Prince Clary's Schloss (castle) to listen again 
to the concert, and to gaze at each other ; there is a 
fine restaurant, where refreshments are served, and 
table d'hdte dinners are prepared. 

vSeveral new parks (Siumepark, Kaiserpark) and 
new promenades (Hitmbold-, Payer-Anlageri) have been 
laid out of late. 

Close by the city is the KonigsJwhe (800 feet) and 
higher up the Schlackenberg, a curious structure in the 
shape of a mediaeval castle, built of bricks and slags. 
A short distance from the city (15 or 25 minutes) are 
the following interesting points : Stefanshohe, Tasa- 
nerie, Tumerpark, Bergschlosschen (1000 feet) and the 
Schlossberg, with the ruins of an old castle razed in 
1655. All these points have fine shady promenades 
and restaurants. 

There are also numerous interesting places in the 
neighbourhood of Teplitz, which can be reached by 
a few hours' carriage ride. We mention : Bilin, re- 
puted for its mineral waters, of which one million 
bottles are annually exported ; Eichwald, of late much 
frequented as a climatic resort for lung diseases ; the 
Geiersberg, with old ruins ; Mariaschein, a noted place 
of pilgrimage ; Graupen, an old mountain-city with a 
celebrated church, and in close proximity the 
Wilhelmshohe and Rosenburg ; Osegg, a grand monas- 
tery with a large park. 

From Teplitz a very interesting excursion is made 
to the Milleschauer or Donnersberg (2600 feet), where 
an unsurpassed fine view is obtained of the largest 



138 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

portion of Bohemia. Visitors take the stage to Pilkau, 
(two hours), and thence they reach the top of the 
mountain by an hour's walk. 

Finally, I wish to remark that the picturesque 
Saxon Switzerland can easily be reached by railway. 

Hotels: Post, Konig v. Preussen, Stadt London, 
Schwarzes Ross y Neptun. 

Patients are recommended to hire rooms at one of 
the bathing-houses ; all information is readily given 
by the Bade- Inspection (the superintendents of baths) 
of the city (for English and Americans in the English 
language). 

Restaurants : Kursalon, Gartensalon at Clary's 
park, Felsenkeller, Drei Rosen, Germania, and at all 
hotels. 

Physicians : Drs. Horing, Richter, Seiche, Willigk, 
Eberle, Hirsch, Delhaes, Kraus, Karner, Lustig, 
Heller, Redlich, Rezek, Karnim. 

Access: From London or Paris, via Cologne and 
Leipzig, or via Frankfort on the Main and Bamberg 
to Eger, thence to Teplitz ; from Hamburg or Bremen, 
via Leipzig and Eger, or via Dresden and Bodenbach, 
to Teplitz. 

Starting from Karlsbad, and pursuing a south- 
westerly course, we reach, by a three hours' railway 
ride, the third of Bohemia's far-famed watering 
places, 

MARIENBAD, a place considerably patronized by 
the English. It is a little city, with 3000 inhabitants, 
1932 feet above the sea, an exceedingly charming 
spot, situated in an open valley, and surrounded on 



THE WATERING PLACES OF AUSTRIA. 1 39 

three sides by high, thickly-wooded hills. The air is 
moist and pretty cool in the morning and evening. 

This place — a hundred years ago an inaccessible 
wilderness — was in 181 8 established as a watering 
place ; Goethe sojourned there in 1820, drinking the 
powerful waters ; everything, however, was so un- 
settled that he wrote to a friend : " I feel as if I were 
in the American solitudes, where the forests are cut 
down in order to build up a city within three years." 
It is now a superb, rising place, with elegant hotels, 
neat villas, large lodging-houses, and many pleasant 
promenades. The arrangements for drinking and 
bathing are very good ; the numerous cafes and 
restaurants equal those of Karlsbad. But prices are 
higher than at the other Bohemian spas. The great 
efficacy of the springs has raised Marienbad to the 
rank of , a world-spa, about 9000 patients visiting it 
during the season ; one million bottles of the Marien- 
bad Kreuzbrunnen are annually exported to all parts 
of the world. 

This Kreuzbrunnen, the most celebrated of the 
springs, is enclosed by a fine rotunda, with a high 
cupola, a large gilded cross on the top of the latter 
attracting the attention of the patients to that im- 
portant spot ; on each side are added pretty colon- 
nades, inclosing a little lawn, where the bust of 
Dr. Nihr, the founder of Spa Marienbad, has been 
placed on a pedestal of red Bohemian marble. Ad- 
joining the Kreuzbrunnen is a beautiful shady pro- 
menade, 900 feet long, where patients walk about 
during the two morning hours (6 till 8) which they 
devote to the goddess of the spring. A long brick 



140 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

building, close to the Kreuzbrunnen, is used for pro- 
menading on rainy days, and adjoins another building, 
containing two rows of shops, the Bazaar, where 
genuine Bohemian goods, as garnets, laces, glass-ware, 
&c, are sold. The most abundant of all Marienbad 
springs is the Ferdinandsbrnnnen, about twenty 
minutes distant from the spa ; its water is carried by 
pipes to the promenade, where it flows into a vase of 
alabaster. Another spring, the Waldquelle, situated 
in a pleasant ravine in the woods, about five minutes 
distant from the Kreuzbrunnen, is the place of rendez- 
vous from half-past eleven to half-past twelve, at 
which time the band plays. There are six other 
springs, which are used for drinking or bathing, the 
most interesting of all being the Marienquelle, This 
spring, immensely rich in carbonic acid, is used only 
for bathing. A large basin (30 feet by 75, and 6 
feet deep), enclosed by a common unsightly building, 
is filled with the mineral water, which issues from the 
bottom ; there are ten or twelve wells, which break 
forth with a murmuring sound caused by the in- 
numerable gas bubbles with which the water is im- 
pregnated. In the same basin are hundreds of gas- 
wells, which throw out pure carbonic acid, and keep 
the surface of the water in perpetual motion. The 
quantity of the carbonic acid is so great that a space 
of two feet height above the water is thoroughly im- 
pregnated with it, and a burning candle lowered to 
the surface of the water is immediately extinguished. 
Marienbad has a pretty Kurgarten, with lawns and 
bosquets, alternating with pleasant walks. A large 
building, called Stadthaus, in which the post and 



THE WATERING PLACES OF AUSTRIA. 141 

telegraph-offices are located, contains a concert-salon 
and a reading-room (with the London Times and 
Daily News). 

Notwithstanding the large number of hotels and 
lodging-houses, it is often impossible in the height of 
the season to be accommodated with a room ; it is 
therefore advisable to apply for one in writing several 
days in advance. 

Two large bathing-houses, the alte and new Bad- 
haus, contain 130 bathing- rooms for mineral water, 
peat, iron, and vapour baths ; carbonic acid baths 
are also applied. The peat baths are very popular, 
as they are considered very efficacious in rheumatie 
and gouty swellings, tumors of the spleen, &c. 

The season begins in May, and lasts until the end 
of September ; in the height of it the spa is crowded 
by the fashionable society, and bath-life is very lively. 
Those who enjoy the sight of large, fat persons of 
immense weight, hardly able to move about, and 
anxious to rid themselves of their burden, can be 
fully pleased by going to the Kreuzbrunnen pro- 
menade ; there they can see them by the hundreds, 
resignedly swallowing considerable quantities of the 
salutary spring. 

Marienbad is a very convenient place for pro- 
menading, the pine-woods being easily accessible 
from each house, pleasant, shady walks leading 
gradually up to the top of the hills. One of the 
nearest and most frequented promenades is the one 
to the Cross on the Hamelikaberg ; other promenades 
are — to the Hirtenruhe } Friedrichstein, Mersery- 
Teinpel, Friedrich- Wilhelmshohe, &c. A very popular 



142 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

excursion is one made to the Podhorn, a basalt- 
mountain an hour and a half distant from Marienbad, 
with pavilions, resting-places and a restaurant. 

Hotels : Klinger, Englischer Hof, Stadt Hamburg, 
Stadt Weimar, Stadt Warschau, Hotel Stern, Bellevue, 
Neptun. 

Coffee-houses : Bellevue, Miihlig, Waldschlucht, 
Panorama, Jaegerhaus, Ferdinandsmuhle, &c, &c. 

Restaurants : Kursaal, Bellevue, Delfln, Tepler 
Haus, Stadt Miinchen. 

Physicians : Drs. Basch, Herzig, Frankl, Schneider, 
Lucca, Kisch, Schindler, Porges, Loewy, Ott, 
Heidler, &c, &c. 

Access: From London or Paris, via Frankfort on 
the Main, Bamburg, Eger to Marienbad ; from Bremen 
or Hamburg, via Leipzig, Reichenbach, Eger to 
Marienbad. 

We shall now visit the fourth and last of the 
celebrated Bohemian spas, the well-known ladies' 
bath, 

FRANZENSBAD, two hours and a half from Karlsbad 
(by railway). It is situated 1570 feet above the sea 
in an open plain, devoid of all attractions ; the air is 
pure and fresh, but sudden changes of temperature 
often occur. This spa presents a fine, aristocratic 
appearance, and consists of 150 houses, all erected for 
the sole purpose of receiving patients. Most of the 
visitors are ladies, the iron-springs and the peat baths 
being considered highly beneficial for quite a number 
of female complaints. The number of visitors is 
about 8000 annually, with only a small number of 



THE WATERING PLACES OF AUSTRIA. 1 43 

gentlemen. The largest public building is the Kur- 
haus, with a grand salon, 115 feet long, 52 feet wide. 
There are two colonnades, a wooden one at the 
Franzensquelle, extending to the Kurhans, with many 
shops, and another one, which is a long brick building 
(221 paces), at the .Salz-quelle, both used for pro- 
menading on rainy days. They are surrounded by 
fine pleasure-grounds. Many elegant hotels and 
villas, most of them situated in gardens, afford 
charming but not cheap residences for invalids, living 
being considered very high at Franzensbad. A large 
park extending from the city to the railway station 
affords pleasant and ample opportunity for outdoor 
exercise. 

Nearly the whole colony of patients assemble in the 
park in the afternoon from 4.30 to 6.30 p.m., when 
the usual concert takes place. Bath-life here is dull, 
the majority of the patients being feeble and suffering, 
and not disposed to indulge in any extravagance. 
Three large bathing establishments, Dr. Cortellieri's, 
Mr. Loihmann's, and Stadt Egerer, containing 315 
bathing-rooms, can accommodate a very large 
number of patients ; they are excellently arranged 
and very well managed; 120,000 baths are given 
during the season, half of them being peat baths. 
The Franzensbad peat has a greater reputation than 
any other, owing to the great quantity of sulphate of 
iron which it contains. A new bathing-house is in 
the course of erection. 

Hotels : Hotel Adler, British Hotel, Hotel Gieseln 
Holzer, Hiibner, Miiller, Kreuz, Leipzig, Kaiservilla, 
Wessel, all with restaurants. 



144 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

Restaurants : Kursaal, Weilburg, Bahnhof, Branden- 
burger Thor (with a nice garden), Prince of Wales 
(with a garden). 

Physicians : Drs. Cortellieri, Kostler, Boschau, 
Kohn, Meissl, Fellner, Sommer, Dissl, &c, &c. 

Access: The same as to Marienbad. 

By an hour's railway ride from Franzensbad we 
reach 

ELSTER, a comparatively new spa, as it has existed 
as a watering-place only thirty years, but already very 
popular. It lies in a wooded, romantic mountain 
region, 1465 feet above the sea, has 1250 inhabitants, 
and excellent arrangements. The principal wells are 
the Eisenquelle, Moritzquelle, and Salzquelle, all located 
in a fine Kurgarten, and covered by handsome 
buildings, where the patients promenade when un- 
favourable weather forbids active exercise in the Kur- 
garten ; there are also good appliances for warming 
the mineral water for the benefit of patients with 
whom the cold water does not agree. The large 
bathing-house contains 1 34 bathing-rooms, twenty- four 
of which are used for peat-baths ; the bathing-tubs 
are of copper, and on cool days the rooms are heated 
by steam-coils. A large reading-room is on the 
second floor of the same building. Elster does not 
yet enjoy the costly pleasure of a grand Kurhaus, but 
there is a large concert-room called Kursaal, in the 
Hotel de Saxe, where reunions and concerts take 
place. The spa is surrounded by magnificent forests. 
The number of visitors already amounts to 5000 
annually. 



THE WATERING PLACES OF AUSTRIA. 145 

Hotels : Hotel de Saxe, Bauer, Wittiner Hof. 
Physicians : Drs. Flechsig, Lobner, Cramer, Peters, 
Paessler, Hahn. 

Access : The same as to Marienbad. 

There is a charming little spa, called — 

JOHANNISBAD, in the Bohemian Riesengebirge, 
near the Silesian frontier ; though a little out of the 
usual route of tourists, it deserves to be noticed on 
account of its picturesque situation, and the curative 
action of its thermal waters. It is a rising spa, which 
in 1859 nac * only 200 visitors, but in 1875 already 
over 2000. It is a little village of seventy houses, 
situated 1955 feet above the sea, in a narrow, wooded 
valley. It has a pure, bracing forest-and-mountain 
air, rich in ozone, and is considered an excellent 
climatic resort for persons who feel debilitated after 
having completed a severe course of treatment at 
Karlsbad or Marienbad. There are two large basins 
for common baths, and bathing-rooms for single baths. 
Fresh wheys are prepared every day. There is a 
handsome wooden colonnade, 140 feet long, and 20 
feet wide, for promenading and concerts ; also a Kur- 
saalhaus, with a fine salon and reading-room. 

The cool, balsamic pine-forests in the immediate 
neighbourhood afford very pleasant resting-places and 
walks on warm summer days. Concerts are given twice 
a week in the forest-park. 

A number of interesting places are suitable points 
for excursions ; of these I mention the Ladig, a 
mountain south of Johannisbad, with a restaurant, and 
a grand view ; the Klausengraber, a narrow, steep, 

L 



146 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

romantic defile ; the Hoffmannsbande (2468 feet). 
Those able to make longer excursions may visit the 
Schneekoppe (5066 feet), the highest mountain in 
Northern Germany, the Hubnerbande (3200 feet), &c, 
&c. 

Hotels: Kurhaus, Preussicher Hof, Kaiser von 
Oesterreich, Villa Bohemia, Kronprinz Rudolf, Stadt 
Prag, Deutsches Haus. 

Physicians : Drs. Kopf, Pauer, Schreyer. 

Access: From Dresden or Berlin, via Gorlitz to 
station Freiheit, thence by a half-hour's stage drive to 
Johannisbad. 

2. The Spas in Upper and Lower Austria 
and Salzburg. 

In order to visit these spas we start from Vienna, 
the magnificent capital of the Austrian Empire, the 
most pleasant of the large continental cities, and a 
great favourite with strangers, owing to the civility of 
its inhabitants, the good living, and the beautiful 
environs. 

By a short railway ride we reach the celebrated 
sulphur spa — 

Baden, the favourite summer residence of the well- 
to-do Vienna citizens, very much frequented by in- 
valids and tourists, on account of the delightful situa- 
tion, good arrangements, and charming surroundings. 
It is a fine little city, with 7500 inhabitants, situated 
672 feet above the sea, on the slope of the Wiener 
Wald. The air, a mountain air, is pure and bracing, 
but subject to sudden changes of temperature. There 



THE WATERING PLACES OF AUSTRIA. 1 47 

are thirteen springs, which were already used by the 
Romans. A dark, close passage-way, ninety feet 
long, leads to the principal well, called R'dmerquelle ; 
those who are not afraid of a little perspiration may 
pass through it, and will find at the end the hot 
spring breaking forth in a big stream from a depth of 
eighteen feet. Some patients enter it for the purpose 
of inhaling the hot vapours — a very undesirable prac- 
tice, the place being too uncomfortable. Baden has 
fifteen bathing establishments, with society baths, 
and single bathing-rooms, the former being the most 
popular ; one of these establishments, the Herzogsbad, 
can accommodate 150 bathers. The common, or 
society baths, where ladies and gentlemen bathe 
together, have galleries accessible to visitors who wish 
to converse with the bathers, or to take a look at the 
proceedings. Of course all bathers are dressed in 
long bathing-gowns ; and I am bound to say that the 
utmost decency prevails, the rules and regulations 
being very strict. The attendants are very obliging, 
and well trained. Bathers, on emerging from the 
water, are very carefully rubbed off with warm towels 
and sheets. Baden has also a grand swimming-bath 
(160 feet by 40 feet), filled with thermal water of y6°. 
The spa has a fine, shady Kurgarten, a nice Trink- 
halle, and a large number of beautiful promenades ; of 
these, I particularly recommend the walk to the 
Helenenthal. The number of guests is about 10,000 
annually. 

Ten minutes distant from Baden by railway is the 
little spa — 

L 2 



I48 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

VoSLAU, a lovely little spot, with an immense 
swimming-bath, filled with thermal water of 77 . The 
bath, which is delightfully situated in the woods, has 
a very large number of dressing-rooms, and strong 
douches and shower-baths. There is also a smaller 
swimming-bath for ladies. Good restaurant and 
nice promenades are in the immediate vicinity. 
Voslau is an excellent place for a summer resort, and 
as such can be recommended to foreigners residing 
at Vienna. 

Hotels at Baden : Stadt Wien, Hotel Munsch, 
Schwarze Adler, Hirsch, Lowe. 

Physicians : Drs. Landesmann, Roller, Miilleitner. 

Travelling from Vienna, either by steamboat up 
the Danube, or by railway, we arrive at Linz, a city 
worth visiting, owing to its fine situation. From here, 
by a two hours' railway ride, we arrive at Steyer, 
thence by a two hours' stage ride, we reach 

Hall, a place of repute, on account of the iodine 
and bromine springs. It is charmingly situated in a 
romantic Alpine region, 1064 feet above the sea ; the 
climate is mild, and moderately moist. Hall is a pretty 
town, with 1000 inhabitants, and a large number of 
hotels and lodging-houses. It has a handsome Kur- 
haus, with a fine concert salon, a billiard and reading- 
room, with a large number of newspapers. (No 
English newspapers). The lower story of this build- 
ing is occupied by the baths, there being eighty-five 
bathing-rooms, with tubs of cement, porcelain, or 
marble. The last named are very elegant indeed. 

An extensive Kurpark, with fine shady walks, ad- 



THE WATERING PLACES OF AUSTRIA. 1 49 

joins the Kurhaus. A long brick building, a short 
distance from the Kurhaus, called Wandelbahn, is 
used for promenading on rainy days. Patients there 
drink the water of the celebrated Thassilo quelle, which 
for 1 100 years has enjoyed a great reputation in scrofu- 
lous affections. The water has a refreshing, but very 
salty taste. The spring issues from the earth, several 
hundred feet distant, in the valley below ; but for the 
convenience of the invalids, the mineral water is 
carried to the fountain in the Wandelbahn by means 
of a force-pump. On the whole, the place seems very 
quiet, the only noise noticed there being made by the 
music-band, which plays several times a day, whether 
it be for the enjoyment or the torture of the unfortu- 
nate patients, is hard to say. About 2000 patients 
annually visit this charming spa, scrofulous children 
contributing a large portion of the patronizers. 

Hotels : Kaiserin Elisabeth is the largest hotel, with 
high prices. There are numerous other hotels and 
lodging-houses. 

Physicians: Loewy, Kaster, Pachner, Rabl, Schuber. 

Access : From London, via Frankfort, Regensburg, 
Linz, to Steyer ; from Paris, via Strasburg, Miinchen, 
Linz, to Steyer ; from Bremen or Hamburg, via 
Leipzig, Regensburg, Linz, to Steyer ; thence by 
stage to Hall. 

By a three and half hours' railway ride from Linz 
we reach — 

ISCHL, the gem of the Austrian spas. There is 
hardly a lovelier and more idyllic spot to be found on 
the continent than this charming little place, which is 



150 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

surrounded by a large number of beautiful Alpine 
lakes, and by high, picturesque mountains of 5000 
feet elevation. It is situated 1530 feet above the sea, 
and is the centre of the far-famed Salzkammergut, 
an Alpine region, hardly surpassed anywhere in beauty 
of scenery. The climate is equally moist and mild, 
very suitable for persons suffering with affections of 
the lungs. Its romantic scenery and salubrious climate 
have already rendered Ischl one of the most fre- 
quented and fashionable spas of Austria, it being 
especially patronized by the Emperor Francis Joseph, 
the Austrian nobility, and the monied aristocracy of 
Vienna. Number of inhabitants, 4000. 

In the height of the season it is crowded to the 
utmost ; rooms are extremely scarce, and prices very 
high. There is a good deal of elegance, but no 
extravagance at this spa. The bathing arrangements 
are excellent, the bathing-rooms being commodious 
and airy ; the tubs are excavations in the floor, and 
are lined with granite. Near the bath-house is a 
large, one-story building, where mineral waters and 
whey are served, and where the band plays in the 
morning when the weather is unfavourable. Of all 
the Austrian spas, Ischl has the handsomest Kurhaus 
{casino), with large and elegant salons, restaurant, and 
reading-room, and a grand terrace, where the visitors 
take coffee or other refreshments while listening to 
the concert. A fine garden, shady walks, and pro- 
menades surround the Kurhaus. The principal pro- 
menade, called the Esplanade, is on the left bank of 
the little river Traun ; it is a fine shady walk, with 
linden and acacia-trees, the centre of attraction in the 



THE WATERING PLACES OF AUSTRIA. 151 

evening, when the band plays. There are many 
interesting points to which the visitors promenade, 
as : the Sopkien-Doppelblick, with a grand view of 
the snow-covered Dachstein ; Kalvarienberg, Karo- 
linen-Panorama, Hundskogel, &c. The imperial villa 
and park are open to the public when the Emperor is 
absent. All the surroundings are beautiful. Elegant 
villas, built on prominent points, are great ornaments 
to the place. 

Very interesting excursions are made to Hallstadt, 
Gosau, to the Schafberg, Salzburg, &c. 

Hotels: Kaiserin Elisabeth, Hotel Baur, Post, 
Kreuz, Stern, Erzherzay Karl, Krone. 

Physicians : Drs. Heinemann, Fiirstenburg, Hertzka, 
Hirschfeld, Kaan, Pfost, Stieger, Scheiring, Schiitz. 

Access: From Linz, by railway to Ischl ; or from 
Linz to Gmunden by railway ; thence by steamboat 
over the Traunsee to Ebensee, thence by railway to 
Ischl — a very interesting trip. 

From Ischl the railway takes us in an hour and a 
half to the little spa — 

AUSSEE, a small place, with 1400 inhabitants ; 
situated 2100 feet above the sea, in a beautiful Alpine 
region (although situated in Styria, I mention it here 
on account of its proximity to Ischl). It is very well 
sheltered from rough winds by the surrounding hills 
and mountains. Since a few years Aussee has come 
into great popularity, and already enjoys the 
patronage of 2800 visitors annually ; as a natural 
consequence it has been endowed with a plain little 
building styled Ktirhaus, and high prices. Its brine 



152 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

{Saale) is stronger than that of any other saline spa. 
Aussee is eminently suitable for a climatic health- 
resort, owing to its high and pleasant situation and 
pure mountain air. 

Excursions to Altaussee, Grundelsee, Hallstadt, are 
highly recommended. 

Hotels : Flackel, Post, Sonne. 

Physicians : Drs. Schreiber, Pohl. 

Access : The same as to Ischl. 

From Aussee we continue our railway travel 
through the pleasant valleys of the Enno and Salzach 
to Lend, a station on the Salzburg-Worgl railway, 
and thence by stage to — 

Gastein. The trip from Lend to Gastein is very 
interesting, the whole region being picturesque in the 
highest degree. A narrow road leads up the hills. 
On one side it is bounded by steep rocks, while on 
the other, in a deep ravine, the water of the wild 
mountain rivulet, Ache, pursues its boisterous course. 
After passing through a narrow, gloomy defile, called 
Klamm Pass, we enter the pleasant, romantic Gastein 
valley. We soon reach H of -Gastein, a small town 
with 800 inhabitants, 2800 feet above the sea. Many 
invalids stop here, as the rooms are cheaper than at 
Bad Gastrin, the thermal waters are carried down 
from the spa by pipes, the temperature thereby being 
lowered a few degrees. After a further drive of 
one hour, always ascending, on a very good waggon - 
road, we arrive at the celebrated spa Wildbad Gastrin, 
3400 feet above the sea. It has the highest elevation 
of all so-called indifferent thermal spas of central 



THE WATERING PLACES OF AUSTRIA. 1 53 

Europe. It is situated at the foot of the Graukagl, (7667 
feet), and on the left bank of the Ache, which, in the 
immediate vicinity, precipitates itself from the steep 
rocks with a thundering noise, forming two mag- 
nificent waterfalls. The whole scenery is grand and 
picturesque. For want of space, one house was built 
somewhat above the other, so that at a distance they 
look as if fastened to the side of the steep mountain. 

The climate is Alpine^ with a fresh, invigorating 
air ; however, sudden and frequent changes of tempe- 
rature sometimes occur, and even during the season, 
in July and August, there are many cool and rainy 
days. Patients are therefore earnestly reminded to 
provide themselves with warm clothing. Prices are 
high, and rooms always very scarce ; the little spa is 
annually visited by more than 3000 persons, and is 
very crowded during July and August. Patients 
desirous of living at the Wildbad, should send orders 
for rooms some time before their intended arrival. 
Gastein has gained great reputation through Emperor 
William of Germany, who has patronized the spa for 
many years. The higher and more refined classes of 
society are well represented. To be sure, there is no 
luxurious bath-life at the little watering place, no ex- 
citement and no extravagance ; everything goes on 
quietly and pleasantly, all the visitors being really 
sick, and desirous of being restored to health. 

The bathing arrangements are perfect ; the bath- 
ing-rooms are large, airy, and elegant. The thermal 
water is perfectly pure and clear, without any deposit ; 
bathers experience a delightful feeling of ease while 
remaining in it, and feel highly refreshed and enlivened 



154 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

after having finished the bath. The usual inevitable 
Kurhaus is not at Gastein ; instead of it there is a long, 
wooden structure, with a great many glass windows, 
which afford a magnificent view of the valley ; on 
rainy days patients promenade here. I have also 
noticed some newspapers in this building. However, 
there are a good many fine walks near the spa, and 
some opportunity is offered for pleasant and interest- 
ing excursions. We mention especially, the one to 
the Stassfeld, a lovely green plateau, surrounded by a 
grand mountain scenery. 

Hotels : i, in Hof Gastein : Moser, Gruber, Kreuz, 
Meisset ; 2, in Wildbad Gastein : Straubinger, Hirsch, 
Grabenwirth, Hotel Badeschloss. 

Physicians : in Hof Gastein : Dr. Pfeiffer ; in Wild- 
bad : Drs. Bunzel, Haerdtl, Proll, Schider, Hoenigs- 
berg. 

Access : From London or Paris, to Munich, thence 
via Salzburg to station Lend, thence by stage to 
Gastein ; from Bremen or Hamburg, to Munich, 
Salzburg, Lend, &c. 

3. The Spas in the Southern Part of 
Austria. 
These baths, with the exception of the little spa 
Villack, are situated in Styria. They are not so well 
known to English and Americans as they deserve to 
be on account of their pleasant situation and the 
efficacy of their thermal waters. At present they are 
mainly patronized by the better classes of Austrian 
society. Accommodations are everywhere good, and 
charges for board, baths, &c, moderate; at some 



THE WATERING PLACES OF AUSTRIA. 155 

places even low. As there is no display,, no high 
bath-life at these watering places, they are eminently 
fitted for invalids who desire a cheap, comfortable 
resort, and refined society. 

We commence our trip by travelling from Vienna, 
on the Austrian Southern railway, to Gratz, passing 
the celebrated Semmering Pass. Gratz, the capital 
of Styria, is most picturesquely situated on both banks 
of the river Mur ; it has a fine promenade and a 
celebrated view on the Schlossberg, (1500 feet), the 
popular resort of the good citizens of Gratz, and of 
the many strangers who permanently reside there on 
account of the beautiful situation and the cheapness of 
living. There are two watering places in the neigh- 
bourhood of Gratz, Tobelbad and Gleichenberg. 

GLEICHENBERG is very picturesquely situated, in a 
narrow, fertile valley, 900 feet above the sea, protected 
by mountains against north and west winds, sheltered 
from the east by wooded hills, and open only to the 
south. The climate is mild, and very steady, without 
any sudden changes, the air pure and moderately 
moist. The houses are very pleasantly situated in a 
large park. Owing to the excellent climate and 
efficacious springs, the spa has become a favourite 
resort for patients afflicted with lung diseases. Milk 
and whey cures are much en vogue here ; there is also 
a room for the inhalation of pine-needle extract. 
About 4000 persons visit the place annually. There 
are five springs, the Constantinquelle being the most 
popular. Two others, the Klausen and Johannisbrun- 
nen> about an hour distant from Gleichenberg, con- 
tain iron, and are much used. 



156 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

Hotels: Stadt Mailand, Stadt Venedig, Stadt 
Wiirzburg, Vereinshaus, Villa Hoflingen. 

Physicians : Drs. Hausen, Klar, Weiss, Netwald, 
Zavori, Rowitz. 

Access: From Vienna, via Gratz to station Fildbach, 
thence by an hour's stage ride to Gleichenberg. 

Tobelbad is a pretty little place in the immediate 
neighbourhood of Gratz, 1070 feet above the sea, in 
a narrow, pleasant valley, surrounded by pine-woods ; 
many villas are pleasantly situated on the slopes of 
the shady hills. Everything looks neat and very well 
arranged. There are two large common or society 
baths, and twenty single bathing-rooms. The charges 
for lodgings, baths, servants, and even for boot-black- 
ing, are fixed by the administration of the spa, and 
are very moderate indeed. There is a nice little 
Kurhaus, and a handsome wooden structure in semi- 
circular shape (180 feet long), for concerts and for 
promenading on rainy days. A nice garden is laid 
out in front of the Kurhaus ; a number of shady 
walks in the surrounding pine forests afford pleasant 
opportunity for out-door exercise. The number of 
patients is small (about 600 annually), but many 
tourists, and citizens of Gratz, visit the place. 

Hotels : There are about nine buildings, under the 
special supervision of the bath director, where furnished 
rooms can be hired for one florin a day, and less ; 
besides these, rooms can be hired in many private 
houses. 

Physician : Dr. Blumauer. 

Access ; From Gratz, by half an hour's railway ride 



THE WATERING PLACES OF AUSTRIA. 1 57 

to station Premstten, thence by a fine promenade 
through the pine forest in twenty minutes to Tobel- 
bad. 

Travelling south from Gratz, by railway, we reach 
in two and a half hours the small station Poltschach, 
and thence by stage we arrive at — 

ROHITSCH, more celebrated, and far more popular, 
than the preceding spa. It is situated 750 feet 
above the sea, in a beautiful valley, sheltered from 
the north by wooded mountains, while the south 
wind has free access; the climate therefore is very 
mild. The arrangements are good, and the prices 
moderate. This spa, together with Tobelbad and 
Neuhaus, belongs to the province of Styria, and the 
prices of all requisites are fixed by the provincial 
government. The government buildings are provided 
with sixty bathing-rooms, and 341 furnished rooms 
for patients. The surroundings are beautiful, and 
afford ample opportunity for excursions (to the 
Donatiberg, 2800 feet high, &c.) About 3000 patients 
annually patronize the place, and 2,000,000 bottles 
of the water are exported every year. 

Physicians : Drs. Sock, Frohlich, Schiiler. 

The next station to Poltschach on the Austrian 
Southern railway is Cilli, a handsome old city, founded 
by the Roman Emperor Claudius. By a very 
pleasant drive of an hour and a half, either by 
diligence or carriage, we reach another spa — 

NEUHAUS, 1200 feet above the sea, in a charming 
valley, surrounded on three sides by mountains of 



158 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

3000 — 4000 feet elevation. It is the highest of all Styrian 
baths ; nevertheless, the climate is mild and temperate, 
with a pure mountain air ; owing to the abundance of 
pine forests the air is rich in ozone. The large 
Kurhaus and other establishments are situated in the 
centre of a fine park ; a large salon in the Kurhaus is 
supplied with a number of newspapers ; twice a day 
the band gives concerts. 

There are two large common baths and several 
single bathing-rooms, all very well arranged, with 
good attendance. Patients after arriving are obliged 
to take their first bath in so-called Fremdenbad 
(stranger's bath) and only after this proceeding are 
they admitted to the common bath used by the other 
patients. I consider this rule, which at this spa is 
strictly observed, a very good one for watering places 
where common baths are in practice ; but I must 
confess that Neuhaus is the only place where I have 
found such a rule established and carried out. There 
are 200 furnished rooms in the lodging-houses for the 
accommodation of invalids, all under the administra- 
tion of the provincial government. Charges for 
board and baths are very moderate. 

The environs being very pleasant, ample oppor- 
tunity is offered for active exercise and excursions. 
Number of visitors, about 1000. 

Physician : Dr. Paltauf. 

Access: From Vienna, by railway to Cilli, thence 
by stage. 

Half an hour from Cilli, on the same railway, is — 
Tuffer, with the new bath, Franz- Joseph *s Bad. 



THE WATERING PLACES OF AUSTRIA. 1 59 

It is situated on the left bank of the river Sann, 690 
feet above the sea, and is a pleasant, modest- looking 
place. The handsome Kurhans is very pleasantly 
situated in the centre of a shady Knrgarten, and has 
a fine salon for concerts, a dining and reading-room, 
with a few newspapers. The bathing arrangements 
are very good ; there is a fine large common bath, 
and quite a number of single bathing-rooms, all 
supplied by three wells, which furnish an abundance 
of thermal -water of ioo°. Prices are moderate. 

Hotels: There are 152 rooms in the Kurhaus and 
the adjoining buildings. The following hotels are in 
the village a short distance from the bath : Brauhaus 
Villa Stein, &c. 

Physician : Dr. Henn. 

Access : Directly from Vienna, via Gratz to station 
Tiiffer. 

Far more elegant than Tiiffer is — 

RoMERBAD, fifteen minutes from Tiiffer by rail- 
way, delightfully located on a high hill, in the 
centre of a fine garden, 730 feet above the sea. 
This spa appears to be the most fashionable of the 
Styrian thermal baths ; the bathing arrangements are 
excellent, especially those of the twelve single bathing- 
rooms. There is also a very large common bath. 
Prices are higher than at the other Styrian baths. 
There are very fine pleasure-grounds in the sur- 
roundings. The establishment contains 304 rooms 
for the accommodation of visitors. Number of 
patients, 1000 annually. 

Physicians : Drs. Bunzel, Mayrhofer. 



l60 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

Access: From Vienna, via Gratz to station Ro- 
merbad. 

By a beautiful railway ride of seven hours through 
one of the finest portions of Styria and Carinthia, 
we arrive at Killach, a very old city, 1500 feet above 
the sea, very picturesquely situated in a wide valley. 
Half an hour distant from the city, at the foot of 
the Dobratsch (7000 feet) lies a little spa — 

Warmbad VlLLACH, to which I desire to direct the 
attention of English and American tourists and 
patients. It is a lovely little spot, very secluded, 
and out of the general route of travellers, but for that 
very reason a suitable resort for persons desiring rest 
and comfort. The bathing arrangements are plain 
but good. I especially mention the large common 
baths, with a delightful, clear thermal water of 86°, 
which constantly issues from the sandy grouud. The 
pretty little Kurhaus, with a fine garden, is in close 
proximity to the railway station. Extensive pine 
forests adjoin the Kur hates, and afford a pleasant, 
cool resort on warm days. On the whole, the little 
spa, though only a very short time in existence, 
already makes a very fine impression on the visitor. 

Lodgings can be had at the Kurhaus, or in the 
city of Villach : Hotel Tarmann. 

A few words may be added on some of the Tyrolese 
watering places. There are a great many in the 
picturesque Pusterthal, which of late has become 
very popular with tourists. These spas, however, 
though highly praised in some guide-books, cannot be 



THE WATERING PLACES OF AUSTRIA. IOI 

recommended to English or Americans. The bathing 
arrangements being mostly too primitive, and devoid 
of all and every comfort. The most renowned is the 
little sulphur spa — 

Innichen, half an hour distant from the railway 
station Innichen, 4165 feet above the sea, beautifully 
situated in a pine forest. Notwithstanding the high 
elevation, the climate is not rough, the place being 
sheltered against rough winds by high wooded hills. 
The air is a fresh, invigorating mountain air. There 
is no great virtue in the mineral water, and the bathing 
arrangements are very plain. However, the place 
is an excellent health resort, and as such it deserves 
the highest praise, and can be recommended to all 
patients who are in need of pure, bracing mountain 
air. There are fifty rooms for the accommodation of 
patients. Prices for board are very moderate. The 
rooms are plain and clean, and scarce in the height 
of the season. The table is good and substantial, 
although not for gourmands. The social intercourse 
is very pleasant. 

Physician, and proprietor : Dr. Scheiber. 

Access : From Munich, via Innsbruck and Franzens- 
feste to station Innichen, thence by carriage in thirty 
minutes to the bath. 



M 



1 62 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 



CHAPTER III. 

THE WATERING PLACES OF SWITZERLAND. 

Switzerland, the promised land of all tourists, has 
a considerable number of watering places, most of 
which have been endowed by nature with very effi- 
cacious springs, and with that salubrious fresh moun- 
tain air which induces so many thousands to resort 
to the Swiss Alpine regions. There are so many 
Englishmen and Americans who make a tour 
through Switzerland, that a knowledge of the most 
frequented and most efficacious springs will be useful 
to them, in case they should desire to stop at a 
watering place. 

I shall only mention the most important of the 
Swiss spas, adding the names of a few which deserve 
a passing notice, for the benefit of those who prefer a 
quiet, secluded place. 

Entering Switzerland at Basle, we arrive, after a 
two hours' railway ride, at the celebrated spa — ■ 

Baden, a place already very well known to the 
Romans, who called it Aqua Helvetia. During the 
middle ages it was the most popular watering place 
in Europe, and was visited by many thousand guests, 
from all countries and of all classes of society, 



THE WATERING PLACES OF SWITZERLAND. 1 63 

especially by many priests, monks, and nuns. It was 
the place where, in those good old times, the greatest 
immorality prevailed. It was the fashionable spa, 
with all kinds of amusements and dissipations. To- 
day it is chiefly visited by Swiss people and French- 
men, numbering from 12,000 to 14,000 annually. 

It is situated in the valley of the Limmat, 1200 
feet above the sea. The larger and more elegant 
establishments are located on the left bank of the 
river, while the smaller bathing-houses are on the 
right bank, and are chiefly visited by the neighbouring 
countrypeople. There is no fashionable bath life at 
Baden, the place is quiet and dull. Patients go thither 
for the purpose of being cured, not for the sake of 
amusement. 

The most complete establishment at Baden is the 
Neite Kuranstalt Baden, with 152 furnished rooms in 
the main building for the accommodation of invalids, 
and a large number of furnished rooms in adjoining 
buildings, called independances. The establishment 
has elegant salons, and a reading-room with some 
English papers [Galignani's Messejiger, Swiss Times). 
A moderate number of English and Americans pa- 
tronize the place. There are over one hundred bathing- 
rooms in the lower part of the building ; the tubs are 
excavations in the floor, lined with marble. Cold and 
warm douches are frequently and skilfully applied by 
the doncheurs and frotteurs ; also sitz-baths, with very 
practical appliances for ascending and circular 
douches. 

Baden has a handsome Kurhaus, with a fine concert 
salon, an elegant dining-room, a billiard and reading- 

M 2 



164 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

room, and a small Kurgarten, where shady walks are 
yet a desideratum. 

Hotels ; Kuranstalt Baden, SchifT, Limmathof, 
Schweizerhof, Freihof, &c. 

Physicians : Drs. Diebold, Minnich, Schmitz, 
Schneubeli, Hephaus, Wagener. 

Access : From London, vid Frankfort; from Paris, via 
Strasburg ; from Bremen or Hamburg, vid Cassel and 
Frankfort, to Basle and Baden, 

From Baden we travel by railway vid Zurich, 
passing the beautiful Zurich and Wallen lakes, to 
station Ragatz, a route very much favoured by tourists 
visiting Chur and the famous Via Mala. We leave 
the railway at Ragatz to visit — 

Ragatz-Pfaffers, an old spa, of great, well- 
merited reputation, acquired by its efficacious thermal 
waters, and the fresh, pure Alpine air. Ragatz, 1690 
feet above the sea, is a charming open village, with 
1800 inhabitants, and much visited by tourists, of 
whom about 50,000 pass through it annually on their 
way to the far-famed Tamina ravine at Pfaffers. The 
thermal waters issue at the latter place, and are 
carried to Ragatz by means of pipes 13,000 feet long. 
The climate is mild and equable. This spa is fre- 
quented by many patients from all parts of Europe. 
Prices are moderate. 

Switzerland has the reputation of being very expen- 
sive, and I find it therefore opportune to remark, that 
those who know how to travel, can live comparatively 
cheaply here as well as anywhere else. Of course, 
first-class hotels, especially those exclusivelypatronized 



THE WATERING PLACES OF SWITZERLAND. 1 65 

by English and Americans, charge high prices, for 
which, however, they afford first-class accommodations 
and excellent board. But there are many excellent 
hotels and pensions (boarding-houses) everywhere in 
Switzerland, where good board and lodging can be 
obtained for moderate prices (five and seven francs a 
day, according to the season). There is no doubt that 
strangers, especially English and Americans, are 
sometimes overcharged, but very often it is their own 
fault. Accustomed to the great comfort of their 
homes, they become exceedingly troublesome to hotel- 
keepers, by ordering a great many things with which 
continental hotels are not always provided, and for 
which high extra charges are made. 

The bathing arrangements in Ragatz are very good. 
In one of the establishments is a large swimming- 
bath. There is also a fine Kurgarten, reading and 
billiard-room, &c. 

Hotels: Quellenhof and Hof Ragatz, Tammino- 
Hotel, Schweizerhof, Krone. 

Physicians : Drs. Dormann, Jager, Kaiser. 

Access: From Hamburg or Bremen, via Cassel, 
Frankfort, Basle, and Zurich, to station Ragatz ; from 
London, via Frankfort, or via Paris, Strasburg, 
Basle. 

On a good road, we gradually walk up to the 
original old thermal springs at Pfaffers. This road, 
along the wild, boisterous Tamina river, bounded on 
one side by high rocks of 500 to 700 feet elevation, is 
one of the most romantic and most frequented Alpine 
roads. After an hour's promenade, we reach the spa — 



l66 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

Pfaffers, situated 2130 feet above the sea, at the 
foot of the Calanda (6500 feet), in a ravine between 
very high lime rocks. It is a cool place, but not very 
agreeable to those who feel animated by the warm 
rays of the sun, which here only shines between 10 a.m. 
and 4 p.m. But the scenery is sublime, the Tamina 
ravine being unsurpassed by any other in this country 
in wild grandeur. In order to get a full view of the 
grand spectacle we pass through the bathing establish- 
ment ; having bought an admission ticket ( 1 franc), 
we pass through the ravine on a safe, commodious 
plank road, 2100 feet long — in the depth below, the 
wild, roaring Tamina ; above us, the dark high rocks, 
which scarcely allow the sun's rays to creep into this 
gloomy passage, and to diffuse a dim, dusky light. 
At the end of this passage we enter a long shaft, 
where the hot springs break forth. 

The bathing-house is a very extensive, rather 
gloomy-looking building, with long corridors, and a 
very large number of furnished rooms, bathing, 
dining-rooms, &c, all very plain, with moderate 
prices ; there are large common baths, and single 
bathing-rooms. The customers recruit chiefly from 
the poorer native population. 

We continue our trip by railway from Ragatz to 
Chur, and here we take the Swiss diligence to the 
Engadine — an excellent conveyance ; hardly anywhere 
else is the postal service for the transportation of 
passengers so well regulated and so well managed as 
in Switzerland. The most picturesque route from 
Chur to the Engadine is that over the Albula pass. 
On this road we pass the little sulphur spa — 



THE WATERING PLACES OF SWITZERLAND. 1 67 

ALVENEU, situated 3100 feet above the sea, in a 
pleasant valley, surrounded by forests ; it is a quiet, 
charming place, and has a new, good bathing establish- 
ment (erected 1866). The climate is an Alpine one, 
with fresh, bracing air and frequent changes of tem- 
perature. 

The road leads up to an elevation of 7500 feet, 
presenting everywhere a wild, romantic scenery. 
Passing through Ponte and Samaden, we reach — 

St. Moritz, a celebrated iron spa, so highly 
popular with the English and Americans that it 
rather looks like an English colony. It is a little 
village, with 400 inhabitants, and is situated about 
6000 feet above the sea. No other iron spa can 
boast of such a high situation and such a strong, in- 
vigorating mountain air. The spa lies in an open 
low meadow, 280 feet lower than the village. The 
iron water is rich in carbonic acid, and has a great 
reputation since olden times. The mean temperature 
of the place is 53 in July, and 50°in August ; sudden 
changes of temperature often occur. Patients should 
not neglect to provide themselves with warm clothing, 
it being rather cool in the latter part of August. 
Close to the spring is a large, commodious Ktcrkaus, 
containing salons, reading and billiard-rooms, forty- 
four bathing-rooms, and lodgings for 250 persons- 
The bathing-rooms do not look very elegant, and 
the small wooden tubs are surely not very comforta- 
ble for bathers. Prices are high, and there is not 
much of that gay, jovial bath life which renders a 
sojourn at the German spas so pleasant. But the 



1 68 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

situation of the place is delightful, and the scenery of 
the whole region is grand. 

There are fine promenades in the woods, and plea- 
sant excursions can be made to Silvaplana, Samaden, 
Pontresina, and the grand glaciers of the Bernina 
chain, and to the Piz Languard. 

Hotels: Kurhaus, Hotel Victoria, Hotel du Lac, 
Hotel Kulm. If St. Moritz is crowded, patients will 
find lodgings at Samaden, Pontresina and Silvaplana, 
all these places being in the immediate neighbour- 
good. 

Physicians : Drs. Berry, Biermann, Brugge. 

One of the most interesting trips is made from St. 
Moritz to Pontresina and the Bernina pass (7500 
feet), on an excellent road, which affords a magnificent 
view of the whole Bernina mountain-range and the 
grand glaciers. South of the pass, at an elevation of 
3100 feet, we arrive at — 

Le Prese, a little sulphur spa, delightfully situated 
at the northern end of the charming little lake of 
Poschiavo, This little spot is really idyllic, and emi- 
nently suitable for persons desirous of remaining a 
short while at a very quiet and retired place. The 
climate is very mild, the place being well protected 
against north and north-east winds. Not far from 
the lake is a fine Kurhaus with a garden ; the bathing 
arrangements are good, there being fifteen bathing- 
tubs of Italian marble ; prices are moderate. 

Access: From Chur, by diligence to Le Prese, cross- 
ing the Albula or Julier Pass. 

A further ride on the Bernina road takes us to 



THE WATERING PLACES OF SWITZERLAND. 1 69 

Tiruno, an old city already on Italian territory, and 
thence to Bormio. 

BORMIO is a very old spa, and was extensively 
patronized by the old Romans. It is near the Swiss 
frontier, and easily accessible by the Swiss diligence. 
We consider it proper to turn the attention of Eng- 
lish and Americans to this watering place on account 
of its beautiful situation, pure air, good arrangements, 
and efficacious thermal waters. 

The old city of Bormio lies in the wide green valley 
of the Adda, 3900 feet above the sea. There is a 
new and an old bathing establishment ; the new bath 
is half an hour distant from the city and 355 feet 
higher, while the old original bath is still 300 feet 
higher than the new one. The old bath was erected 
by the Romans, and some of their old buildings are 
still in existence ; this bath is almost exclusively 
used by the country people, the charges being con- 
siderably lower than at the new bath. Besides 
mineral water baths, sulphur mud baths are given. 
These old buildings are very picturesquely situated on 
high rocks ; near by is the place where the thermal 
springs issue from the rocks ; they furnish an abun- 
dance of water of 102 , which is carried down by 
means of pipes to the new establishment. 

This new bathing- house was erected several years 
ago by a Swiss company. It is a grand building, 
elegant and comfortable in every respect, with a large 
number of nicely furnished, neat and clean rooms, 
large salons, dining-rooms, &c. There are sufficient 
accommodations for 150 to 200 guests. The bathing- 
rooms are high and airy, the tubs lined with marble 



170 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

and porcelain. A nice pleasure-ground is laid out 
before the establishment, and good walks lead up the 
hills. In July and August the place is very much 
patronized. During the summer the climate is very 
pleasant, the mild Alpine air being invigorating and 
exhilarating. The surrounding hills afford a grand 
view of the valley and the high snow-covered moun- 
tains, Piz Colombano (9800 feet), Cima di Piazza 
(11,500 feet), Piz Tresoro, &c. Ample opportunity is 
afforded for pleasant excursions to several mountain 
valleys ; a trip to the Stelvio Pass (8900 feet), the 
highest of all the Alpine passes, is exceedingly inte- 
resting, the scenery on the whole route being the 
grandest and most picturesque, hardly surpassed by 
any other in the Alpine regions. 
Physicians : Drs. Bruni, Marturano. 

Starting from St. Moritz on a trip to the valley of 
the boisterous Inn, v/e reach, after a six hours' drive, — 

Tarasp, in the Lower Engadine, a renowned water- 
ing place, 3800 feet above the sea. The climate is 
milder than that of St. Moritz, the valley being well 
sheltered from the north winds by the mountains. 
The mean temperature in July and August is 52 to 
5 8°. There is a fine park, and a magnificent Kurkaus, 
with splendid salons, many furnished rooms for guests, 
and fifty-six bathing-rooms. More than twenty wells 
furnish an abundance of a very efficacious alkaline 
saline water, which is mainly used for drinking. The 
surroundings are grand ; and in conjunction with the 
powerful springs and excellent arrangements would 
attract a larger number of patients, if the place were 



THE WATERING PLACES OF SWITZERLAND. 171 

more accessible. Patients who do not wish to live at 
the KurJiaus, will find rooms at Vulpesa, which is 
situated 300 feet higher than Tarasp, at a distance of 
only one quarter of an hour, an excellent road leading 
up to it from Tarasp. 

Hotels at Vulpesa : Bellevue, Alpenrose, Tell, 
Steiner. Patients can also be accommodated at 
Schuls, twenty minutes from Tarasp ; the hotels at 
these places have lower rates than the Kurhaus Tarasp 
Several stages carry the patients to the springs in the 
morning. 

Hotels at Schuls : Belvedere, Post, Konz, Helvetia. 

Physicians : Drs. Arquint, Killias, Pernisch. 

Access : From London, Paris, Bremen, or Ham- 
burg, to Ragatz and Landquart by railway ; from the 
railway station Landquart, the Swiss diligences make 
the trip to Tarasp in fourteen hours, crossing the 
Fluela Pass. 

A few words remain to be said of a watering place 
which is unique among the spas, owing to the peculiar 
mode of treatment which is in practice there. This is — 

Bad Leuk, a little village in the canton Wallis, 
with 660 inhabitants. It is situated 4356 feet above 
the sea, in a narrow, long mountain valley, in the 
midst of a sublime Alpine scenery, surrounded by 
majestic mountains, whose peaks are permanently 
covered with snow. The climate is rather rough, 
and frequent changes of temperature occur. The 
season lasts from May until the end of September, 
the largest number of visitors being there in July and 
August. Swiss and French chiefly patronize the spa. 



1J2 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

There are five great bathing establishments, containing 
fourteen large common or society baths. In these, 
invalids of both sexes bathe together, dressed in long 
bathing-gowns, drinking coffee, chatting, reading, or 
playing cards or chess on little tables floating on 
the water. There are separate dressing-rooms, and 
separate entrances to the baths for each sex. In the 
bathing-rooms galleries are erected for lookers-on or 
friends of the bathers who wish to converse with them 
There are twenty-two springs, which furnish such an 
immense quantity of thermal water of 92 to 122 that 
nine-tenths of it flows into the river Dala, being 
entirely superfluous. The treatment is very peculiar 
and old-fashioned ; bathers remain in the water four 
or five hours in the forenoon, and three hours in the 
afternoon. Of course this kind of treatment would 
not suit English or Americans, but the place is well 
worth seeing. There are also single baths, but 
patients passing through so tedious a course of treat- 
ment would find it rather unpleasant to remain alone 
in a bathing-tub, for six or eight hours every day for 
several weeks. The time for bathing is from 5 to 10 
a.m. and 3 to 5 p.m. 

Visitors to Bad Leuk have the opportunity of 
making very interesting excursions to the neighbour- 
ing mountains and glaciers. I especially recommend 
a trip to the Gemmi Pass (2800 feet), where a grand 
view can be had of the various mountain ranges. 

Hotels: Hotel des Alpes, Bellevue, Hotel de France, 
Union. 

Physicians : Drs. Bonvin, Brunner, Grillet, Mengis. 

Access: From London, Paris, Hamburg, or Bremen, 



THE WATERING PLACES OF SWITZERLAND. 1 73 

to Basle and Thun by railway, thence on the Thuuer- 
see by steamboat to Spiez, thence by carriage or 
diligence to Kandersteg, and thence on horseback to 
Leuk (bath) ; or from Paris, via Geneve and Martigny 
to the railway station Loueche (Leuk) in the Rhone 
valley, thence by carriage to Bad Leuk. 



PART III. 

CHEMICAL COMPOSITION AND 

THERAPEUTICAL APPLICATION OF THE 

MINERAL WATERS. 



GENERAL REMARKS. 

EVERY patient visiting a watering place has a natural 
desire to know how the mineral waters operate on the 
system, and what are their active principles and 
curative effects. To satisfy this desire, I will endeavour 
to explain, in as popular a language as possible, the 
chemical composition and classification and the 
physiological and therapeutical action of those 
mineral springs which have been enumerated and 
described in the second part of this treatise, keeping 
aloof from all purely medical discussions, which in- 
stead of enlightening would only embarrass the mind 
of the reader. As aforesaid, this little book is written 
for the public, and not for members cf the profession. 
For this very reason the comparative tables of the 
mineral springs, which will be found at the end of the 
book, will not contain all the mineral ingredients, but 
only the most important ones, the knowledge of which 



CLASSIFICATION OF THE MINERAL WATERS. 175 



I — Alkaline waters < 



will enable the reader to form an opinion of his own 
on the physiological and therapeutical action of the 
waters. 

The following classification, based on the chemical 
composition of the springs, has been adopted by the 
best authors on balneology : — 

1. Simple alkaline waters : Salz- 
brunn, Giesshiibel, Neuenahr. 

2. Alkaline muriated waters : Gleich- 
enberg, Ems. 

3. Alkaline saline waters (Glauber- 
salt-water) : Karlsbad, Marien- 
bad, Franzensbad, Elster, Ber- 
trich, Rohitsch, Tarasp. 

Baden-Baden, Cannstadt, Homburg, 
Kissingen, Nauheim, Pyrmont, 
Soden, Wiesbaden, Kreuznach, 
Miinster am Stein, Hall, Reich- 
enhall, Kreuth, Ischl, Aussee, 
Rehme-Oeynhausen. 

Neundorf, Eilsen, Meinberg, Weil- 
bach, Alveneu, Le Prese, Aachen 
(Aix- la - Chapelle), Burtscheid, 
Landeck, Baden (near Vienna) 
Baden (Switzerland). 



II. — Saline waters 



III.— Sulphur waters < 



IV.— Iron waters 



Booklet, Bruckenau, Cudowa, 
Elster, Franzensbad, Homburg, 
St. Moritz, Pyrmont, Driburg, 
L Reinerz, Schwabach. 

_ f Lippspringe, Inselbad, Wildungen, 

V.— Earthy waters . 1 t 1 tT ■ 
( Leuk, Bormio. 

Schlangenbad, Warmbrunn, Wild- 
bad, Teplitz, Johannisbad, Gas- 
tei?i, Tobelbad, Neuhaus, Tiiffer, 
Romerbad, Ragatz-Pfdffe7's, Vil- 
lach. 



VI.- 



-Indifferent 
Thermal waters 



Ij6 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 



CHAPTER I. 

ALKALINE WATERS. 

Salzbrunn — Giesshiibel— Neuenahr — Gleickenberg — 
Ems — Karlsbad — Marienbad — Franzensbad — 
Elster — Bertrich — Rohitsch — Tarasp. 

POTASH and soda are alkalies. Simple alkaline waters 
contain soda in the shape of carbonate of soda, and a 
considerable quantity of carbonic acid. When either 
common salt or Glaubersalt is also present in a 
sufficient quantity to produce a therapeutical effect, 
the waters are called alkaline muriated or alkaline 
saline (Glaubersalt) waters. 

Alkaline waters are colourless, perfectly clear, some 
tasteless, some with a salty taste, according to the 
quantity of salt they contain. Those rich in car- 
bonic acid have a pleasant, prickling taste. 

The most important constituents of the simple 
alkaline waters are carbonic acid and carbonate of 
soda. When drinking these waters, we usually notice 
an immense quantity of small bubbles ; this is the 
carbonic acid gas, so well known to the reader as the 
principal ingredient of the common soda water. This 
gas acts as a stimulant on the stomach, and, if a 
moderate quantity be absorbed, also on the nervous 



ALKALINE WATERS. 1 77 

system, producing lightness of the head and accelera- 
tion of the pulse and respiration. This latter effect is 
increased by a high temperature of the water. If too 
large a quantity of the gas is present in the water, 
part of it is soon eliminated by eructation. Waters 
with a small amount of carbonic acid are better borne 
by the stomach than those charged with a large 
quantity. To make the latter more digestible, pa- 
tients shake it, or let the glass stand a short while in 
the open air, whereby the quantity of the gas soon 
diminishes. The presence of this gas, which increases 
the action of the stomach, renders all mineral waters 
more digestible. 

Soda is present in the blood in the form of carbonate 
of soda or chloride of sodium (common salt), and its 
presence in the blood is of the greatest importance, as 
it keeps the albumen and fibrine of the blood in a 
state of solution, thereby promoting the assimilation. 
But the continued use of soda has a lowering influence 
on the system. Small doses of soda have a beneficial 
effect on the digestion. The prolonged use of large 
doses disturbs the appetite and impairs the nutrition. 
The excessive acidity of the stomach is neutralized 
by the carbonate of soda. This fact being generally 
known, many persons are in the habit of taking a 
small quantity of soda after dinner. Soda also in- 
creases the secretion of the urine. 

The most striking effect of the alkalies is seen in 
catarrhal affections of the throat, bronchial tubes, 
stomach, &c. They promote the excretion of the 
mucous, and diminish its quantity. Experience has 
proved them, especially those which contain a con- 

N 



178 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

siderable amount of chloride of sodium, highly bene- 
ficial in bronchial catarrhs ; and their efhcacy is 
materially increased by the high temperature, which 
aids the expectoration. Some of the alkaline waters 
are naturally warm, as for instance those of Ems, 
Karlsbad, &c. ; others are heated artificially, if so 
ordered by the physician, or are mixed with warm 
milk or whey. Catarrh of the bladder is also benefited 
by the use of water containing carbonate of soda. 

If the mucous membrane of the stomach is affected, 
carbonate of soda acts beneficially by removing the 
mucous and the gases, and by neutralizing the acidity 
of the stomach. There is hardly any disease in which 
more benefit is derived from the use of the alkaline 
waters than in chronic catarrh of the stomach and 
dyspepsia, the latter being in fact only a symptom of 
the former. Increased acidity, flatulency, copious 
secretion of mucous, and nausea, often combined with 
vomiting, are the principal symptoms. The digestion 
and assimilation being impaired, patients become lean 
and feeble. In all such cases alkaline waters, with 
the aid of a well-regulated diet, are the surest reme- 
dies to remove these symptoms. Of course no cure is 
possible without a rigid dietetic regimen, which, in 
each individual case, must be regulated according to 
the constitution of the patient and the prevailing 
symptoms. 

Ulcerations of the stomach are also successfully 
treated by alkaline waters ; but a careful supervision 
of the dietetic regimen is in such cases almost of 
greater importance than the use of medicine or 
mineral water. 



ALKALINE WATERS. 1 79 

In catarrh of the gall ducts, of which the principal 
symptom is jaundice, the alkaline waters, and espe- 
cially the alkaline saline waters, are the proper 
remedies. 

It has often been contended that alkaline waters 
increase the secretion of the bile ; and there is some 
truth in that assertion, in so far as the large quantity 
of the water which is consumed by the patients 
increases the flow of the bile ; the alkalies by them- 
selves, especially the carbonate of soda, do not pro- 
mote the secretion. According to Braun's theory, 
the Glaubersalt waters produce an irritation of the 
mucous membrane of the intestinal canal, and by 
reflex action, a stimulation of the liver, whereby the 
secretion of the bile is increased. At all events the 
fact cannot be denied, that a large number of patients 
who suffer from attacks of that fearful disease, gall- 
stone colic, are greatly relieved, and often permanently 
cured, by the use of the alkaline, and especially of the 
Glaubersalt springs. 

These waters are also very useful in cases of en- 
largement of the liver and obesity. 

Scrofulous swellings of the lymphatic glands and 
thickening of joints improve by the use of alkaline 
waters, which greatly promote the absorption of all 
kinds of exudations. 

Alkaline waters are the principal remedies for the 
cure of gravel. They prevent the formation 4 of new 
calculous concretions in the kidneys and the bladder ; 
however, those already in existence are not dissolved, 
as many believe, but are freely eliminated by the 
copious draughts of mineral water. Alkaline waters, 

N 2 



l80 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

especially when containing Glaubersalt, are very- 
useful in gout. 

In diabetes the alkaline waters, aided by a careful 
dietetic regimen, are the only remedy. I have seen a 
very large number of diabetic patients successfully 
treated by the Karlsbad waters ; and, if the disease is 
not too far advanced, and consumption has not set in, 
the chances of recovery are favourable in the majority 
of cases. As the Karlsbad waters are almost a specific 
remedy for diabetes, this subject shall be fully dis- 
cussed at the proper place. 

A few words may be added, in regard to the action 
of the Glaubersalt (sulphate of soda), the most im- 
portant constituent of the alkaline saline waters. It 
is present in the blood in a very small quantity, and 
has no specific physiological effect on the system. 
Small doses of Glaubersalt do not impair the diges- 
tion, but rather improve it ; larger doses continued for 
some time impede the digestion, and produce dys- 
pepsia, and catarrh of the intestinal canal ; on the 
stomach and the bowels they act as a strong stimulant, 
increasing the peristaltic action, and causing copious 
watery purging. 

Glaubersalt occurs in the alkaline waters in a com- 
paratively small quantity, and combined with soda, 
common salt (chloride of sodium), and carbonic acid. 
This composition is a very good one, as the chloride 
of sodium and the carbonic acid stimulate the function 
of the stomach, and prevent the stronger Glaubersalt 
from acting injuriously on that organ. Glaubersalt 
waters have a mild, purgative action, without impair- 
ing the digestion ; they promote the peristaltic action 



ALKALINE WATERS. l8l 

of the stomach, and enable it to eliminate its sour and 
fermenting contents ; moderate doses can be taken 
for a long time, without lowering the system. 

Large doses, however, which cause irritation of the 
bowels and frequent copious ejections, act injuriously 
on the digestion and nutrition. It is generally known 
that moderate quantities of this salt, taken for some 
time, have a tendency to effect the absorption of the 
superfluous fat and reduce the weight, without any 
detrimental effect on the general health of the patient. 
Patients lay too great a stress upon the purgative 
action of the Glaubersalt waters, which, of course, is 
more or less powerful according to the quantity of 
water which they drink ; they generally labour under 
the erroneous impression that the curative effect can 
only be accomplished by large doses, which produce 
frequent, and even excessive evacuations. 

Corpulent persons who wish to lose several pounds 
of their superfluous fat will find a sure relief at the 
alkaline-saline springs, provided they have sufficient 
energy to renounce the luxury of an opulent table, 
and to subject themselves to a rigid anti-fat regimen. 
Karlsbad, Marienbad, and Tarasp are the favourite 
spas of such patients. These powerful waters are 
also preferable to the other alkaline waters in cases of 
liver complaints, jaundice, haemorrhoids, gall-stones; 
diabetes, gout, gravel, and chronic catarrh of the 
stomach ; they promote the circulation in the abdo- 
minal organs, regulate the peristaltic motion of the 
bowels, and by their purgative action relieve conges- 
tions of the internal organs. More shall be said of 
these matters when the therapeutical application of 



1 82 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

the various alkaline springs comes into considera- 
tion. 

i. Simple Alkaline Waters. 

Salzbrunn has two springs used for drinking, the 
Oberbrnnnen and Miihlbrunnen, both cold (46 ), which 
for nearly three centuries have enjoyed a great repu- 
tation as very efficacious in cases of consumption, 
bronchial catarrh, and catarrh of the bladder. On 
account of the high elevation, the place is more suitable 
for consumptive patients than its old rival Ems, whose 
warm climate and warm springs are too exciting for a 
large number of that class of patients. 

GlESSHiJBEL : the principal source is the Ottoquelle, 
which, besides alkalies, contains carbonate of iron and 
a considerable quantity of carbonic acid. It is useful 
in catarrhs of the bronchial tubes and the bladder ; as 
a refreshing drink it is in great demand at all the 
Bohemian spas. 

Neuenahr has four springs, all warm, like those 
of Ems, though not so rich in carbonate of soda. 
Temperature of the water 104 It is highly recom- 
mended in cases of chronic diarrhcea, bronchial 
catarrh, and diabetes. 

2. Alkaline Muriated Waters. 

Ems, the oldest and most famous of the alkaline 
muriated waters, has six springs which are used for 
drinking : the far-famed Kranchen (96 ), the Kiessel- 
brunnen (11 4 ), Augustaqnelle (103 ), Fiirstenquelle 
(96 ), Victoriaquelle (82 ), and Kaiserbrunnen (84 ). 



ALKALINE WATERS. 1 83 

The great and well-deserved reputation of these 
waters depends on their chemical ingredients (soda, 
common salt, and carbonic acid), their temperature, 
and the mild climate of the spa ; they are recom- 
mended — 

(a) In catarrhal affections of the digestive, urinary, 
and especially respiratory organs, provided these 
organs be free from inflammation. 

(b) In cases of vaginal catarrh and sterility. The 
Bubenquelle (96 ), applied as an ascending douche, 
enjoys an immense reputation as a specific remedy 
for sterility, and is extensively patronized by ladies, 
and recommended by physicians, though this specific 
efficacy is doubted by gynecologists. 

(c) The Emser waters promote the absorption of the 
exudations which often remain after pleuritic affec- 
tions. 

(d) In consumption these waters were, in former 
times, universally recommended by the members of 
the profession. Many experienced bath physicians 
now have a different opinion, and even forbid their 
employment in consumptive cases. 

(e) Bronchial catarrhs usually derive great benefit 
at Ems ; but if they are associated with haemorrhage of 
the lungs, or with phthisis, these waters are considered 
injurious, such cases requiring a more tonic and in- 
vigorating air than is usually found at Ems. 

Excellent whey of goat-milk, prepared by a Swiss, 
is very much used, generally mixed with the mineral 
water. There are also at this spa appliances for the 
inhalation of compressed air. 

Gleichenberg has five cold springs (6o°— 64 ) 



1 84 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

which are far richer in carbonate of soda, chloride of 
sodium, and carbonic acid, than the waters of Ems. 
The Constantin and Emmaquelle are chiefly used for 
drinking, the Roman-Karls and Werlequelle for bath- 
ing. The J ohannis quelle, which is two hours distant 
from the city, contains less soda and salt. The 
Klaus enquelle, half an hour distant from the spa, is a 
strong chalybeate spring. The climate of Gleichen- 
berg is far more suitable than that of Ems for patients 
whose respiratory organs are in a state of irritation. 
For this reason Gleichenberg is highly recommended 
for consumptive cases, and for all other affections 
which are treated at Ems. 

3. Alkaline Saline (Glaubersalt) Waters. 

Karlsbad has the only warm and strong alkaline 
waters of Europe ; these are the most powerful of all 
the mineral springs on the continent, and deserve to 
be discussed more fully than the other waters. Their 
great therapeutical efficacy depends on the high tem- 
perature and chemical composition, combined with 
a suitable dietetic regimen. The high temperature 
facilitates the absorption of the waters, and alleviates 
the irritating action of the salt on the mucous mem- 
branes of the stomach and the intestinal canal ; more- 
over, it increases the circulation of the blood, and the 
secretion of the skin and the mucous membranes. 

The Karlsbad springs contain just enough sulphate 
of soda (Glaubersalt) to increase the peristaltic action 
of the bowels and cause evacuations without disturb- 
ing the digestion ; if moderate quantities are taken, 



ALKALINE WATERS. 1 85 

which have only a mild purgative effect, the salts con- 
tained in these waters are absorbed, and operate on 
the system in the manner above explained, and this 
operation is soon noticed by the disappearance of the 
superfluous fat. Patients should therefore not urge 
their medical advisers to allow them to take large 
quantities of the water, or to give them purgative 
salts in addition to the water in order to increase its 
purgative action ; because frequent and copious 
ejections are not desirable, as they would eliminate 
the greater portion of the salts, and thereby frustrate 
their absorption. One or two daily evacuations are 
sufficient for patients under treatment at Karlsbad. 
However, it is a general prejudice that a cure cannot 
be effected without much purging, and many patients 
feel unhappy, if they cannot daily register a consider- 
able number of them. 

Karlsbad has a large number of springs, which only 
vary in regard to temperature, their chemical compo- 
sition being almost identical. The following are the 
most popular : — 

Sprudel 162 
Neubrunnen 144 
Felsenquelle 142 
Schlossbrunnen 125 
Miihlbrunnen 132 
Marktbrunnen 124 
Kaiserbrunnen 122 
Kaiser Karlquelle 108 

The following table will show the quantity of some 



1 86 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

of the ingredients and of the carbonic acid contained 
in sixteen ounces : — 





Sprudel. 
Grams. 


Muhlbrunnen 




Grams. 


Sulphate of potass 


I'430 


I-450 


Sulphate of soda . 


18-474 


18-369 


Chloride of sodium 


8-002 


7-90I 


Carbonate of soda 


9-969 


9-823 


Carbonate of magnesia 


1-279 


1-239 


Carbonate of iron 


0-023 


- 02I 


Carbonic acid 


5-961 


5-8 9 2 



The water has scarcely any taste, some comparing 
it to a thin chicken broth ; at all events, patients 
soon become used to it, and take it without any 
reluctance. The water of the Sprudel forms large 
incrustations ; flowers and other substances, soaked 
for a time in the Sprudel water, are soon covered with 
a yellow or brown layer of stone, called Sprudelsione, 
which is a deposit from the water, and contains phos- 
phate of lime, silicate of potass, and carbonate of iron. 
In the rear of the Sprudel colonnade, on such incrus- 
tations as protrude in the shallow bed of the river 
Tepel, visitors can observe a green, sticky substance, 
which is composed of confervas and an immense 
number of microscopical animalcules. But the 
Sprudel water does not contain these animalcules. 

The patient, after having taken two or three glasses 
of the water, notices a pleasant sensation of warmth 
through the whole body ; afterwards, if some more 
cupfuls are drunk, a slight griping pain is often felt, 
and one or two evacuations are the palpable pheno- 
mena of the efficacy of the water. But this action 
does not always follow. At the beginning of the bath 



ALKALINE WATERS. 1 87 

course constipation often annoys the patient, to his 
indescribable terror, for every one comes to Karlsbad 
impressed with the idea that the waters should operate 
at once, and produce an everlasting copious discharge 
of what he considers superfluous excremental matter. 
Such patients will undoubtedly be surprised to hear 
that invalids suffering from diarrhoea are cured by the 
use of the warm springs of Karlsbad. Generally 
during the whole course evacuations take place twice 
or three times in the forenoon. When the constipa- 
tion continues, a small dose of Karlsbad salts will re- 
lieve the patient ; in such cases, it is often very advan- 
tageous to drink, before going to bed, one or two 
glasses of the water, which has previously been 
cooled. One of the most constant symptoms, is the 
increased secretion of urine, and the frequent desire to 
urinate. The perspiration is also somewhat increased, 
especially if the warmer springs are drunk. Eruptions 
on the surface of the skin, and increased secretion of 
mucous from the bronchial tubes, are also sometimes 
noticed. 

The appetite is good, and often much increased ; a 
loss of appetite is sometimes felt after a prolonged 
treatment, but especially by patients who indulge in 
too large draughts of water. 

The majority of those patients who adhere to a 
rigid diet grow thinner, while feeble persons who 
partake of a nourishing diet do not lose either flesh 
or strength. Diabetics who are ordered to eat much 
meat often gain flesh. 

In consequence of the change of living and the 
scanty diet, patients often feel a little weak and 



1 88 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

languid a few days after beginning the treatment ; 
but after a short time they recuperate, and feel lively 
and comfortable during the whole course. Some who 
are inclined to congestions of the brain, often feel a 
slight giddiness and dizziness of the head ; but this 
disappears as soon as the quantity of the water which 
the patients drink is lessened, or if water of a lower 
temperature is taken. For a long time the prejudice 
has prevailed among laymen, especially in Germany, 
that a course of treatment by the Karlsbad waters, on 
account of their great efficacy, was a dangerous under- 
taking; and even nowadays quite a number of patients 
go there with a faint heart. But there is not the 
slightest cause for such a fear, nor is there any danger 
whatever in the use cf the Karlsbad springs, which I 
consider the most efficacious, the most beneficial, and en- 
tirely innocuous waters, if properly applied. Of course 
patients often become worse during their stay at 
Karlsbad, but according to my own experience, based 
on several years' observation, mostly in consequence 
of their own carelessness in regard to diet, as a large 
number of visitors are too much inclined to disregard 
the simplest dietetic rules, and indulge in rather opu- 
lent or indigestible meals. This is the class of patients 
who loudly denounce these waters, as they are un- 
willing to confess their own folly. Furthermore, 
there are others who injudiciously take too large 
quantities of the waters, in order to enforce a rapid 
improvement ; and others, again, who overtax their 
system by indiscreet active exercise. All these, and 
others who otherwise indulge in an improper way of 
living, cannot expect to experience a beneficial result 



ALKALINE WATERS. 1 89 

from the use of the springs. I consider it my duty to 
urge this point, as patients who, by these and similar 
shortcomings, have left the spa without having been 
cured, are generally very apt to dissuade others from 
resorting to it, thus depriving them of the opportunity 
of recovering their health. 

The monographists and encomiasts upon Karlsbad 
are in the habit of enumerating a large number of 
maladies which they claim as being benefited by the 
springs of that celebrated spa. I shall only specify 
those affections, which are generally acknowledged 
by competent authors as being cured or relieved 
there. 

Karlsbad's waters are recommended — 

{a) In chronic catarrh of the stomach, which the public 
generally calls dyspepsia. The predominant symptoms 
are :— Loss of appetite, pappy taste, coated tongue, 
bad odour from the mouth, acidity in the stomach, 
flatulency, eructation, nausea, and sometimes vomiting, 
whereby copious masses of sour, slimy substances are 
discharged. Patients also have a sensation of fulness 
and inflation in the epigastric region, often combined 
with pain and irregularity of the bowels ; the nutrition 
is impaired, and there is a heavy feeling in the head 
and depression of mind. There exists hardly any 
other mineral water which has proved so efficacious 
and affords such a certain and often rapid improve- 
ment in these cases as the Karlsbad water. 

(b) In chronic ulcerations of the stomach, where the 
Karlsbad waters are considered the sovereign remedy. 
The principal symptoms of this disease are the same 
as those of the former, combined with an intense pain 



190 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

in the stomach, vomiting after each meal, chronic 
constipation, and considerable emaciation. 

(c) In chronic constipation, especially if caused by 
sedentary habits. The slow peristaltic action of the 
bowels, and the retarded circulation of the blood in 
the abdominal organs, are much improved by the use 
of the cooler springs of Karlsbad. 

id) In enlargement of the liver, especially if caused 
by an opulent table and want of active exercise. 
Patients of this kind will positively be cured at 
Karlsbad. 

(e) In jaundice, which is caused by catarrh of the 
hepatic ducts. I have been informed by the oldest 
and most experienced practitioners of Karlsbad, that 
even the most pertinacious cases of jaundice are cured. 

(f) In gall-stone colic. Very large quantities of 
gall-stones are often discharged without any pain by 
patients who drink the Karlsbad waters ; and this is 
the first palpable effect of the treatment. But the 
principal object in view in the treatment of this 
disease is to prevent the formation of new stones, and 
this object is attained by an energetic use of the 
warmer springs, especially of the Sprudel. Patients 
who, by a first course at Karlsbad, find themselves 
relieved from the attacks of this exceedingly painful 
disease, should never neglect to return to a second 
course, in order to attain a complete cure, as the 
stones frequently re-form, and patients are only aware 
of their existence by the sudden appearance of a fresh 
attack. 

(g) In enlargement of the spleen, which is easily cured, 
if caused by simple congestion and malaria. 



ALKALINE WATERS. 191 

(h) In gravel. Already in the beginning of the 
treatment numerous concretions often pass off freely 
and without pain. If the waters are taken long 
enough and in sufficient quantities, they prevent the 
re-formation of stones. The Sprudel is the most 
powerful and popular spring for cases of gravel. 

(2) In cases of gout. This disease furnishes a 
very large quota of the visitors of Karlsbad, whose 
waters have a tendency to counteract the uric-acid 
diathesis, which is considered the cause of gout. 
There is no doubt, and the experience of many years 
has proved the fact, that the Karlsbad thermal springs 
are the principal remedies in the treatment of that 
disease. The best authors coincide in this respect. 

(k) Ynobesity — excessive fatness, which is considerably 
and rapidly reduced at Karlsbad. Attentive visitors 
have ample opportunity of observing how much fat per- 
sons who attract attention by their immense corpulence 
are reduced, even within a short time after their arrival. 
Such patients lose twenty pounds, thirty pounds, and 
even more, within four or six weeks. But being accus- 
tomed to an opulent, rich diet, and unable to abstain 
from it after having finished their course, they soon 
regain their old weight. These are the patients whom 
we meet year after year at Karlsbad and the other 
alkaline saline springs — faithful and steady customers, 
anxiously longing every spring for the opening of the 
season. 

(/) In diabetes. Four continental spas are recom- 
mended for the cure of diabetes : Karlsbad, Vichy, 
Neuenahr, and Tarasp, each of these having its special 
patrons and admirers among the members of the 



192 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

profession. The first-named seems to be the most 
favoured by the medical advisers of the diabetic 
patients, as the number of those who undergo a 
treatment at Karlsbad is very large, and increases 
from year to year. From all parts of the globe 
diabetics travel to that spa, confident of being cured 
by the far-famed thermal springs ; and, indeed, this 
confidence is not misplaced, for the majority of 
patients find great relief. The symptoms of diabetes 
are generally known. An excessive thirst and hunger, 
very frequent discharges of enormous quantities of 
urine, loss of bodily strength, and great emaciation, 
are the first symptoms which attract the attention of 
the patient, and induce him to seek the advice of a 
physician. The examination of the urine demon- 
strates the presence of a more or less considerable 
quantity of sugar. The use of the Karlsbad waters, 
and a proper dietetic regimen soon effect a visible 
improvement ; the excessive thirst and hunger di- 
minish, the discharges of the urine become less fre- 
quent and less copious, the quantity of sugar decreases 
remarkably, and before the bath course is finished, 
the sugar often entirely disappears ; bodily strength 
and hilarity of mind return, the bodily weight in- 
creases, and the progress of the disease is often 
arrested for years. Even in advanced stages of 
diabetes, an improvement is often attained, provided 
there be no complication with consumption or Bright's 
disease of the kidneys ; cases of the latter kind are 
almost helpless, and no objects for treatment at any 
watering place. 

In no other disease is the proper dietetic regimen 



ALKALINE WATERS. 1 93 

of such an utmost importance as in diabetes. Every 
violation of the dietetic rules, especially during, the 
use of the mineral waters, is injurious. Having seen 
the most disastrous results caused thereby, I consider 
it necessary to designate the proper diet for diabetic 
patients, in order to enable them to select suitable 
food, as the bath physicians are often prevented, by 
the throng of visitors, from giving explicit instructions. 
The food should be prevailingly an animal one, and 
all substances containing sugar or flour must be rigidly 
avoided. Diabetics, who constantly feel hungry, 
should take frequent meals, and not eat too much at 
a time. For breakfast they are allowed to take 
coffee, without sugar or milk, a couple of eggs, a 
plate of soup, or a beefsteak. Milk should not be 
taken, as it contains sugar ; cream is allowed. Bread 
is forbidden ; but as most patients can scarcely do 
without it, they may eat one Vienna roll. Kleberbrod, 
bread prepared at Karlsbad for the special use of 
diabetics, is very useful, but patients soon become 
tired of it. 

Dinner should consist of soup and meat — all kinds 
of meat being suitable — beefsteak, roast beef, veal, 
lamb, poultry, venison ; the latter is very good for 
diabetics, and is always on the bill of fare at the 
better restaurants. Spinach is allowed, but no vege- 
tables containing sugar or starch ; as, potatoes, rice, 
turnips, asparagus, and fruit. Every kind of pie or 
pudding is strictly forbidden. Fish is a suitable food 
for diabetics ; trout is the favourite fish at Karlsbad. 
Oysters, lobsters, crabs, are very good for diabetics ; 
but not allowed during the time in which patients 

O 



194 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

drink mineral waters. Eggs, in any shape whatever* 
are allowed ; salad, though a proper dish for diabetics, 
is not allowed so long as the mineral waters are 
taken. 

For supper a plate of soup, meat, or a few eggs 
may be taken. One roll at every meal is all that is 
allowed by the bath doctors. To quench the thirst, 
patients can take a bottle of Giesshubel water, or a 
glass of red wine. 

Diabetics being very liable to take cold, should 
always wear thick flannel underwear, and never take 
a walk without being provided with a shawl or an 
overcoat. Too much active exercise is to be avoided, 
as fatigue and exhaustion are injurious. To remain 
constantly in the open air when the weather is 
favourable, to stroll in the gardens or woods, is most 
beneficial to such patients. 

Before closing the chapter on Karlsbad's springs, I 
should not forget to say a few words about the Karls- 
bad salt, which is extensively advertised and sold by 
the druggists of nearly every country of both hemi- 
spheres. It is a white salt, obtained by evaporation 
of the Sprudelwater ; ioo parts of it contains sulphate 
of soda 37*69, chloride of sodium 0*39, carbonate of 
soda 5*99, water 55*52. This salt has a well-deserved 
reputation, being very useful in cases of chronic catarrh 
and ulceration of the stomach, if taken in small doses ; 
it is also applied in larger doses in all affections, where 
a mild purgative action is desirable. This salt operates 
quickly and without pain, and does not lose its efficacy 
like other purgative remedies, the doses of which must 
be increased from time to time in order to produce 



ALKALINE WATERS. 195 

the desired effect. It has also another advantage above 
other purgatives, namely, while using it patients are 
not affected with subsequent constipation, which is 
usually the case after the application of other laxatives. 

Marienbad has also powerful springs. The Krenz- 
and Ferdinands Brunnen are strong Glaubersalt waters, 
and contain more Glaubersalt, chloride of sodium, and 
carbonic acid than the Karlsbad waters ; their pur- 
gative action is also far more intense. The Wald- 
quelle is a mild alkaline saline water ; the Ambrosius 
and Karolinenbrnnnen are alkaline chalybeate springs. 
All these waters are cold. The two first-named are 
applied in cases of habitual constipation, excessive 
fatness, enlargement of the liver, and congestions of 
the abdominal organs. They are eminently adapted 
for stout, full-blooded persons of sedentary habits, 
who, after having indulged in a luxurious, opulent 
living, are anxious to free themselves from their 
superfluous fat. For patients disposed to conges- 
tions of the brain, the Marienbad waters are better 
adapted than those of Karlsbad. The Waldquelle is 
recommended for chronic catarrh of the bronchial 
tubes ; the Ambrosius and Karolinenbrnnnen for 
anaemic affections. 

Great importance is attributed to the peat baths, 
as has already been mentioned in the Second Part of 
this book. 

Tarasp. — Baun says, " The waters of Tarasp are 
in every respect a higher potency of Karlsbad and 
Marienbad." They contain the same amount of 
Glaubersalt, but three times as much carbonate of 
soda, chloride of sodium, and carbonic acid. Three 

O 2 



I96 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

springs — viz. the Lucius, Emerita, and Ursus springs — 
are strong alkaline saline waters ; three others — viz, 
the Bonifacius, Wy Quelle, and the Carola — are alkaline 
chalybeate springs. All are cold springs. The pur- 
gative action is not too strong ; but nervous excite- 
ment and sleeplessness are often noticed. Three to 
five glasses are the usual doses. 

To stout persons, who have carried on an opulent, 
indolent life, the Tarasp waters will prove very useful. 
The magnificent mountain air, and the mild, equable 
climate, contribute a great deal to the success of the 
treatment, and give the place a great superiority over 
all other spas of the same class. 

The waters of Tarasp are recommended for the 
same diseases as are those of Karlsbad, namely, for 
chronic catarrh of the. stomach, fatty and enlarged 
liver, gall-stones, gravel, catarrh of the bladder, and 
diabetes. They are also highly praised for catarrh 
of the bronchial system, chronic inflammation of the 
uterus, and even for consumptive cases. 

Elster and Franzensbad have alkaline saline 
springs, called Salzquellen, which are similar to the 
Marienbad Kreuzbrunnen. 

ROHITSCH. — The principal spring, called Tempel- 
brunnen, contains less Glaubersalt and chloride of 
sodium than the Karlsbad Sprudel, but more carbo- 
nate of lime and magnesia, and more carbonic acid. 
The water is cold, and is recommended for chronic 
catarrh of the stomach and of the intestinal canal, 
for chronic ulceration of the stomach, enlarged liver, 
gall-stones, gout, obesity, and especially for gravel 
and catarrh of the bladder. 



ALKALINE WATERS. 1 97 

Bertrich has warm springs of 90° which contain 
half as much Glaubersalt as those of Karlsbad. Its 
waters are very useful in cases of catarrh of the 
mucous membranes, gout, rheumatism, and nervous 
irritability. 



WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 



CHAPTER II. 

SALINE WATERS. 

Baden-Baden — Homburg — Kissingen — Wiesbaden — 
Cannsiadt — Nauheim — Pyrmont — Soden — Krenz- 
nach — Miinster am Stein — Hall — Reichenhall — 
Krenth — Ischl — A ussee — Rehme- Oeynhausen. 

The principal mineral ingredient contained in the 
saline waters is the common table salt (chloride of 
sodium). These waters are clear and more or less 
salty, according to the amount of salt contained ; if 
much carbonic acid is present, they have a pleasant, 
pungent taste. If the quantity of salt is small, say 
below two per cent, the waters are called simple saline 
waters ; these are suitable for drinking and bathing. 
Some springs are cold, some hot. If the quantity 
of salt is considerable the waters are called brines 
(Soolen) and are only used for bathing. 

There is a third group of saline waters, which con- 
tain iodide of soda or magnesia, or bromide of soda or 
magnesia ; these are called iodo-bromate salt waters, 
and are used for drinking and bathing. 

The saline springs are also classified, according to 
their temperature, into cold and thermal springs. 

One of the most important constituents of these 



SALINE WATERS. 1 99 

waters is the carbonic acid gas, of which some of the 
saline waters contain a very considerable amount, 
which contributes largely to their efficacy. 

Baths are given at all the saline baths, but while at 
some the drinking prevails, and only little importance 
is attributed to the bathing, the waters at others are 
so strong in salt, that bathing alone is practised. 
According to the prevalence of one or the other 
method, the saline waters are classified into saline 
springs and saline baths. 

1. Saline Springs. 

Small doses of saline water increase the appetite 
and improve the digestion, by stimulating the mucous 
membrane of the stomach and augmenting its secre- 
tion ; the peristaltic action of the stomach is accele- 
rated, and its contents are more rapidly removed. 
Small doses are absorbed, and improve the assimi- 
lation and nutrition. Larger doses produce watery 
alvine ejections, and, if continued too long, an irrita- 
tion, and even inflammation, of the intestinal canal. 

The active ingredient of these waters is the chloride 
of sodium, the common salt, which is the most im- 
portant element in all organic substances. It is con- 
tained in large quantities in all tissues and liquids of 
the human system, and especially so in the blood, 
where its proportion is very large, compared to the 
other mineral constituents, as carbonate of soda, 
iron, &c. And it is to it that the saline waters largely 
owe their action. It acts differently upon the diges- 
tion from the carbonate of soda or Glaubersalt ; for 



200 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

while these salts are fat-destroy 'ers, and reduce the 
weight of the body, the use of the salt-springs does 
generally not affect the latter, nor remove a great 
deal of the superfluous fat. 

As a constituent of all liquids of the system, the 
common salt is also present in the gastric juice, acting 
as a solvent on the contents of the stomach, especially 
on the albuminous and amylaceous substances, and 
thereby promoting the digestion and the absorption 
of the food. 

Saline waters are therefore therapeutically applied 
when it is found necessary to increase the activity of 
the stomach and the intestines, to improve digestion 
and assimilation, and to promote absorption. 

Carbonic acid is an essential element of all saline 
waters, the cold springs containing more of it than 
the warm ones. It is a valuable auxiliary to the 
chloride of sodium, as it operates not only locally as 
a stimulant to the secretion and peristaltic action of 
the stomach, but also, after absorption, as a general 
stimulant to the whole nervous system. This ex- 
plains the pleasant, exhilarating effect of all beverages 
containing a large quantity of carbonic acid. 

The temperature of the waters is also of great im- 
portance ; cold waters are not so readily absorbed as 
warm ones ; low temperature increases their stimula- 
tive action, while warm springs produce a sedative 
effect on the digestive organs. 

The saline springs, especially the cold ones of 
Kissingen, Homburg, &c, have proved very beneficial 
in cases of dyspepsia and chronic catarrh of the 
stomach, when there is no complication with exces- 



SALINE WATERS. 201 



sive acidity, in which case the alkaline muriated 
waters (Ems, Gleichenburg) are the proper remedies. 
Another frequent complication of gastric catarrh is 
obstinate constipation ; saline water could only benefit 
such cases if employed in large doses, which, however, 
would produce irritation of the stomach and of the 
alimentary canal. It is therefore advisable in such 
cases to resort to the alkaline saline waters of Karls- 
bad, Marienbad, &c, which are very efficacious in 
constipation. In chronic catarrh of the intestinal 
canal, the warm saline waters are very useful. 

Patients of moderate strength, who are affected 
with haemorrhoids,, will do well to resort to a saline 
spring, while robust persons are more benefited by 
Karlsbad or Marienbad. Congestions of the liver and 
fatty liver are also objects of treatment by saline 
waters ; but the Glaubersalt springs are far more 
powerful, and should always be preferred, if the 
disease is already in an advanced stage. In cases of 
enlarged spleen, produced by intermittent fever, the 
saline waters are employed with great success. 

These waters have for many years enjoyed an im- 
mense reputation in cases of scrofula, and great results 
are undoubtedly obtained, especially by their external 
application in the shape of brine baths (Soolbader)-. 
Swelling of the lymphatic glands, caries, rachitis 
(rickets), are successfully treated by the internal and 
external employment of the salt springs. Some of 
these which have a moist and mild climate, as for 
instance Soden, are highly recommended in cases of 
bronchial catarrh, and in the early stages of con- 
sumption. 



202 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINS. 



The following are the principal saline springs : — 

Baden-Baden : only one spring, called Urspriing, 
is used for drinking ; it contains thirty grains of 
common salt in one quart of water, very little car- 
bonic acid, and has a temperature of 156 . Mixed 
with milk or goat-whey, it is recommended for bron- 
chial catarrh. On the whole, there is not much stress 
laid upon the drinking, the spa owing its great popu- 
larity to its baths, its climate, and its magnificent 
situation and perfect arrangements. 

Cannstadt has four wells, which are used for 
drinking, and which furnish a mild, saline water, con- 
taining a moderate quantity of common salt and 
carbonic acid, and a small amount of Glaubersalt and 
iron ; temperature 6o° — 70 . In order to increase the 
purgative action of the water, sulphate of magnesia 
or soda is added ; whey is also mixed with the water. 
Three or four glasses of water, each containing about 
six ounces, are taken in the beginning, afterwards 
five or six. Chronic catarrh of the respiratory and 
digestive organs, and cutaneous diseases, are success- 
fully treated. 

HOMBURG has five cold saline springs, which are 
exclusively used for dinking ; these are, the Elisabeth- 
brunnen, the principal source, which is richer than the 
Kissingen Rakoczy in chloride of sodium and car- 
bonic acid, and a stronger purgative ; the Ludwigs- 
brimnen, Kaiserbrunnen, StaJilbrunnen and Luisen- 
brimnen, all of which contain carbonate of iron. The 
Elisabethbrunnen is the only water which produces 
copious evacuations and reduces the weight. 

Kissingen has cold saline springs, which are rich 



SALINE WATERS. 203 



in carbonic acid and chloride of sodium, and contain 
a small amount of carbonate of iron. The two 
principal springs are the Ragoczy and Pandur ; the 
third spring, the Maxbrimnen, is not so largely 
patronized. The two former have about the same 
chemical composition, while the Maxbrimnen contains 
only a small quantity of mineral ingredients, though 
it is rich in. carbonic acid. The purgative effect of 
the Kissingen waters can only be attained by taking 
them in very large doses (a quart or more). They 
are employed in all diseases for which saline waters 
are indicated, and which have been enumerated above ; 
they are especially recommended when the nutrition 
and assimilation are impaired, and the digestive 
organs relaxed, and not able to bear the stronger and 
more operative alkaline saline waters. In bronchial 
affections the Maxbrimnen is said to be very useful, 
taken either plain or mixed with wheys. The Kis- 
singen Bitterwasser is used to relieve constipation. 

NAUHEIM has two cold springs, which are used 
for drinking — the Karlsbrunnen and the Kurbrunnen, 
the latter being so rich in chloride of sodium that it 
must be diluted by some water in order to be fit for 
use ; it is richer in salt than the Ragoczy, but poorer 
in carbonic acid. Half an hour distant from Nauheim 
is the Schwalheim spring, a mild saline water, very 
rich in carbonic acid, and chiefly used as a refreshing 
beverage. 

Pyrmont, the celebrated iron spa, has also a saline 
spring, which is used for drinking, and contains about 
the same amount of chloride of sodium as the Kis- 
singen Ragoczy, but less carbonic acid. 



204 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

Soden has an abundance of warm springs, all rich 
in carbonic acid and with a considerable quantity of 
chloride of sodium. The mild, sedative air of the 
place is exceedingly suitable for persons suffering 
from nervous irritability, bronchial catarrh, and tuber- 
culous affections ; patients, however, predisposed to 
congestions or affected with heart-disease should not 
go to Soden. The temperature of the twenty-four 
springs varies from 66° — 15 6° F. ; the springs are 
marked by the numbers I. to XXIV. ; some contain 
chloride of sodium, others carbonate of soda and 
chloride of sodium ; carbonate of iron is an ingredient 
of all. 

The springs of Soden are especially recommended : 

(a) For chronic catarrh of the pharynx, dyspepsia, 
catarrh of the stomach and the intestinal canal, 
chronic catarrh of the hepatic ducts. 

(b) For chronic catarrh of the larynx and the 
bronchial tubes of delicate scrofulous persons, but not 
for those cases of catarrh which are associated with 
asthma of long duration, or with excessive discharge 
from the bronchial tubes. 

(c) For those cases of phthisis where a temporary 
stay of the disease is noticed and the fever is subdued. 
Spring and fall are best suited for the treatment of 
such patients. 

(d) For scrofulous and nervous women affected 
with chronic catarrh of the uterus. 

(e) For nervous irritability, chronic rheumatism, 
convalescence after typhoid fever, scrofula, &c. 

Wiesbaden. — Until the spring of 1879 only one 
spring, the Kochbrunnen, was used for drinking. A 



SALINE WATERS. 205 



high temperature (156 ), a moderate quantity of 
chloride of sodium, and nearly an entire absence of 
carbonic acid, are the characteristics of that spring. 
Its mild, sedative action on the intestinal canal, and 
the increased secretion of the skin and kidneys, are 
mainly due to its high temperature ; moderate doses 
augment the peristaltic action of the bowels, and the 
secretion of all the mucous membranes ; while large 
doses (a quart or more) effect copious alvine ejections, 
and diminish the secretion of the urine and skin. 
Such doses when continued for a longer time produce 
irritation of the stomach and the intestines, and 
congestions of the internal organs. 

Catarrhs of the respiratory and digestive organs, 
especially when the mucous membranes are very 
irritable, are also benefited by the internal use of the 
Kochbrunnen. A new spring for drinking, the 
Schiitzenhof quelle, has recently been added. On the 
whole, bathing is by far the most important part of 
the treatment at Wiesbaden. 



2. Saline Baths. 

Salt baths have been used at all times ; the Romans 
patronized them to a large extent, and wherever their 
legions were stationed, they searched for mineral 
springs and erected baths. They were acquainted 
with the saline baths at Wiesbaden and Baden-Baden, 
and used them extensively. Since the beginning of 
the present century a large number of saline baths 
have been erected at places where salt-mines were dis- 
covered and worked. 



206 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

Saline baths are more numerous and more patro- 
nized than any other kind of mineral water baths. 
Besides the common salt, which is the principal 
mineral constituent, they contain chloride of calcium 
and magnesium, bromine and iodine, though these 
substances, on account of their small quantity, contri- 
bute but slightly to their efficacy. There is, however, 
another ingredient, which is considered a very impor- 
tant remedial agent in the external application of the 
saline springs, namely, the carbonic acid, with which 
some of them are highly charged. 

The once general belief that chloride of sodium is 
absorbed by the skin, has made the salt baths so very 
popular, and even nowadays this opinion prevails 
among laymen. But no salt is absorbed by the skin. 
Nevertheless the common salt, aided by the high 
temperature, is the curative principle of these baths ; 
and the experience of many years has demonstrated 
the fact, that saline baths are powerful remedies in 
various complaints. The salt acts as a stimulant on 
the cutaneous nerves ; to this local irritation of the 
skin, by which the change of tissue is promoted and 
the circulation improved, the saline baths largely owe 
their beneficial action. If strong salt baths are con- 
tinued for some time, the irritation of the skin becomes 
more intense, and often causes cutaneous eruptions. 
This irritation depends not only on the amount of salt 
present in the water, but even far more on the 
susceptibility of the skin ; for there are patients 
endowed with such a sensitive skin, that even the 
mildest saline baths produce considerable irritation. 

As above remarked, the efficacy of some of these 



SALINE WATERS. 20J 



baths depends a great deal upon the presence of the 
carbonic acid. A patient immersed for the first time 
into water highly charged with this gas, is greatly 
surprised to find himself covered with an immense 
number of minute gas bubbles, which are spread over 
the whole skin, and look like innumerable little pearls 
— a very interesting sight. These bubbles are the 
carbonic acid gas ; as soon as wiped off by the 
patient, they rapidly accumulate again on the surface 
of the skin. After awhile a pleasant pricking or 
burning sensation is felt, and a greater afflux of 
blood to the capillary vessels takes place, manifested 
by redness of the skin. Such a bath produces a feel- 
ing of warmth through the whole system. This sen- 
sation is due to the carbonic acid, which stimulates 
the cutaneous nerves, and through them the whole 
nervous system. To this action is no doubt due the 
great success of the thermal saline baths of Nauheim 
Rehme, &c. 

The saline baths are classified into cold and warm 
(thermal) saline baths ; those containing iodine and 
bromine constitute a third class. 

The stronger saline baths are called brine baths 
(Soolbader) ; a brine bath must contain at least two 
or three per cent, of salt. Saline baths which con- 
tain less salt are made brine baths by the addition of 
the necessary quantity of Mutterlauge, while baths 
which are too rich in salt are diluted by water, in 
order to avoid too great an irritation of the skin. 
The following table, showing the quantity of salt 
in the various waters, will be instructive to the 
reader : — 



208 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 





Salt in 


Solids 






iooo parts. 


in 1000 parts. 


Per cent. 


Aussee 


244'5 


272'7 


27-2 


Ischl . 


255-26 


27I-6 


27-2 


Reichenhall 


224-36 


233-0 


23-3 


Pyrmont 


32-00 


4C4 


4'0 


Rehme. 


30-35 


38-4 


3-8 


Nauheim 


21-82 


26-35 


2-6 


Kreuznach . 


I4-I5 


I7-6 


r8 


Kissingen . 


10-55 


I4-2 


1 '4 



Mutterlauge (mother lye) is a thick, brown 
liquid, the residue of saline water from which the 
greater part of the salt has been eliminated by 
crystallization. Dissolved in water, it is extensively 
used as a family medicine by the Germans, for the 
preparation of baths for scrofulous children. It still 
contains common salt as the principal ingredient, 
chloride of lime and magnesia, iodine, bromine, and 
sulphate of calcium. The quantity of salt in the 
Mutterlauge of — 

Kreuznach, is 3-4 in 1000 parts. 

Nauheim, is 9-3 „ „ 

Kissingen, is 56*0 „ ,, „ 

Ischl, is 231-6 „ „ 

Saline baths augment the appetite, improve the 
digestion and assimilation, accelerate the circulation 
of the blood in the capillary vessels of the skin, increase 
the secretion of the sebaceous and sweat glands, and 
improve the nutrition of the whole body. 

A most visible effect of the salt baths is the dis- 
appearance of scrofulous swellings. The success of 
the external treatment is much secured by the internal 
use of the saline waters, a method generally practised 



SALINE WATERS. 209 



at the German spas. But however powerful be the 
action of these waters, we should bear in mind that 
the salubrious air of the spas, especially of those 
situated in mountainous regions, aids materially in 
procuring the beneficial results achieved by the 
Soolbdder. 

There is also a great difference in the effect of the 
saline baths, according to the higher or lower tem- 
perature of the water, the cooler baths acting as tonics, 
the tepid ones as sedatives, while the hot ones are 
stimulating. 

For therapeutic application the saline baths are 
recommended — 

(1) In rheumatic affections and gout. The warm 
saline baths of 93 — 95 have a beneficial effect similar 
to that of the indifferent thermal waters, which are 
usually applied in such cases ; but the former being 
invigorating and strengthening, they are preferred in 
cases where patients are reduced in strength. 

(2) For atony of the skin. Persons with a tender 
skin and apt to catch cold, are much benefited by 
cool saline baths. 

(3) For scrofula. Saline baths, especially those 
containing iodine and bromine, are considered the 
real panacea for this malady. They improve the 
nutrition of the patients, and promote the absorption 
of scrofulous exudations. 

(4) In female complaints. Chronic inflammation 
and hypertrophy of the uterus derive great benefit 
from the application of the saline waters. 

The following are mild saline baths, containing 
one per cent, or less of salt. 

P 



210 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

Baden-Baden. — The temperature of the water 
varies from 112 — 15 6°. The amount of salt con- 
tained in the springs being inconsiderable, it is the 
high temperature of the water that has made this 
spa so famous for hundreds of years. Pine-cone 
extract and Mutterlauge are used to increase the 
efficiency of the baths. 

CANNSTADT. — The water has a temperature of 
66° — 70 , and a small amount of salt, but a consider- 
able quantity of carbonic acid, part of which escapes 
when the water is heated for the baths ; enough of it, 
however, remains to produce some stimulating effect. 
About 60,000 baths are given during the season. 
The climate is as mild and salubrious as that of 
Baden-Baden. Scrofulous and rheumatic affections, 
diseases of the skin and liver, are treated by these 
baths. 

Wiesbaden. — The water contains only one-half of 
one per cent, of salt, and very little carbonic acid, but 
its virtue lies in its temperature, by which that great 
efficiency is attained which has established the im- 
mense reputation of this spa. The twenty-nine springs 
have a temperature of 142 — 156 ; but the water is 
mostly cooled to 93 , in order to make it fit for bath- 
ing purposes, and some quarts of Mutterlauge are 
added to increase its strength. Generally patients 
are advised to go to bed after the bath, in order to 
bring on profuse perspiration. Baths are given at 
the hotels, which is a great convenience for invalids, 
who are thereby enabled to bathe during the fall and 
winter without fear of exposure. Gout and rheumatism 
are the principal diseases treated at Wiesbaden/ the 



SALINE WATERS. 211 

mild climate being a great auxiliary in the cure of 
these affections. Persons slowly recovering from 
acute diseases likewise derive great benefit from the 
thermal baths of Wiesbaden, which are also very 
advantageous to delicate, scrofulous patients, who 
cannot endure a strong mountain air. 

The following saline spas are strong salt baths, 
called Soolbdder (brine baths) ; some of them contain 
iodine and bromine, and a large amount of carbonic 
acid. At these places bathing largely predominates, 
though the drinking of the saline water is considered 
a valuable auxiliary, and much favoured at some, as 
at Kreuznach, Nauheim, &c. 

KREUZNACH, the most famous of the Soolbdder, 
owes its great reputation partly to the iodine and 
bromine contained in its saline water, which chemicals 
are popularly considered very efficacious for scrofu- 
lous swellings, and partly to the mild climate, the 
excellent arrangements, and the great perfection of 
the technical part of the treatment. The saline water 
is not strong, but by adding concentrated brine or 
Mutterlauge the required strength is readily attained. 
The internal use of the salt-water is highly praised 
by the Kreuznach physicians, and much practised, for 
the purpose of promoting the absorption of scrofulous 
swellings. 

Kreuznach has four springs — the Elisenquelle, 
which is chiefly used for drinking ; the Oranienquelle, 
the Hauptbrunnen of the Theodor quelle, and of the 
Carlshalle ; the three latter being only employed for 
bathing. Patients, when entering on the bath course, 
take baths of fifteen minutes duration, but gradually 

P 2 



212 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

the time of the bath is prolonged to forty-five minutes, 
or even to an hour. The temperature of the springs 
varies from 50 — 86°, but for bathing purposes it is 
raised to 90 and 92 . The strength of the bath is 
gradually increased by adding Mutterlauge, of which 
even ten quarts are often mixed with the bath. Such 
strong baths, and the internal administration of the 
water, have a powerful effect on the absorption of 
scrofulous swellings ; and the decided successes 
attained thereby maintain the high reputation of the 
place. Inhalations of the atomized salt-water are 
also administered. 

All the different forms of scrofula are objects of 
treatment at Kreuznach, especially scrofulous affec- 
tions of the glands of the neck and chest, and chronic 
eruptions on the skin. Scrofulous ulcerations of the 
bones, swellings of the knee-joint, inflammations of 
the eye and ear, resulting from scrofula, and rachitis, 
also derive the greatest benefit. Dr. Michels, of 
Kreuznach, especially praises the dissolvent power of 
the baths in cases of tumors of the uterus and ovaries. 

MiJNSTER AM Stein. — The principal spring of 
this spa, called Hanptbrunnen, has about the same 
chemical composition as the Kreuznach water, but a 
higher temperature (86°). The treatment is similar 
to that of Kreuznach. Mutterlauge and concentrated 
brine are added to the baths. 

Hall, near Steyer (Austria), has five springs, con- 
taining iodide and bromide of magnesia ; the prin- 
cipal spring, the Thassiloquelle, has a great reputation, 
and has been internally used since olden times as a 
remedy for struma. The Mutterlauge which is added 



SALINE WATERS. 213 

to the baths, contains also iodide and bromide of 
magnesia ; from six to twenty-five quarts are taken 
for a bath, mixed with the necessary quantity of 
mineral water. 

REICHENHALL has a strong brine of twenty-three 
per cent, of salt, which must be diluted, in order to be 
fit for bathing purposes. The spa has nineteen wells, 
of which the Edelquelle is richest in salt. The tem- 
perature of the bath is 91 — 95° Patients affected 
with chronic catarrh of the bronchial tubes flock to 
Reichenhall, and are much benefited by the various 
remedies applied there, in the shape of inhalations of 
atomized salt water, compressed air, wheys, mountain 
bitters, &c, the fresh, pure mountain air being un- 
doubtedly more efficient than most of these remedies. 
The brine of the Edelquelle is used for drinking, one 
tablespoonful being dissolved in a glass of water, but 
I do not think that much benefit is derived therefrom. 

Kreuth. — The Mutterlauge used for the baths at 
Kreuth is carried there from Rosenheim, eighteen 
quarts being used for a bath. There is also a sulphur 
spring of 5 2°, called Zum heiligen Kreuz (to the holy 
cross), which is very much patronized' by patients 
suffering from abdominal affections. Braun speaks 
very highly of this spa, and calls it one of the most 
wholesome watering places for irritable, scrofulous, 
and even consumptive persons, on account of the 
excellent mountain air and the good arrangements. 

ISCHL has a strong brine of twenty-four to twenty- 
seven per cent, of salt. The bath is usually prepared 
with 100 gallons of mineral water, containing thirty- 
two to thirty-four pounds of salt, but it is often 



214 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

still stronger. A decoction of pine needles and some 
quarts of Mutter lauge are often added. Mud and 
vapour baths are also applied, and inhalations of 
atomized salt water administered. The mild climate 
is very suitable to persons suffering from bronchial 
affections or nervous irritability. 

AUSSEE. — One hundred parts of the brine of this 
place contain eighty-three parts of salt. There are 
eighteen pounds of salt in a bath of about two hun- 
dred gallons of water, the brine is also used for 
drinking, though of course considerably diluted. 
Arrangements are also made for the inhalation of 
atomized salt water, pine needle baths, whey cure, &c. 

KlSSINGEN has two springs, which are exclusively 
employed for bathing, the Soolsprudel and Sch'dn- 
bomspritdel ; they have a low temperature of 64 and 
68°, and only one and a half per cent, of salt, and a 
great part of their efficacy is due to the large amount 
of carbonic acid. The Mutterlauge, of which from 
two to fifteen quarts are added to a bath, is rich in 
chloride of sodium. For the purpose of bathing, the 
temperature of the water is raised to 92 . Salt baths, 
of a lower temperature, but of short duration, are also 
applied by order of the bath physicians. The as- 
cending douche, called Welle, and the horizontal 
douche, called Strahl, are very popular, the former 
one especially for uterine affections. Inhalations of 
atomized salt water, carbonic acid baths, peat and 
vapour baths are also accessories of this celebrated 
spa. 

PYRMONT has a brine which contains three per 
cent, of salt, and a moderate quantity of bromide of 



SALINE WATERS. 215 

soda and magnesia. Formerly the great reputation 
of this spa was based upon its efficacious iron waters, 
but for a number of years the salt baths have become 
largely patronized, and very beneficial results are ob- 
tained. The iron and salt waters are taken alternately 
or combined, as the case requires, and the existence of 
these two powerful remedial agents in one place is a 
great advantage. 

REHME-OEYNHAUSEN has thermal saline water 
(brine) of 89 , which contains three per cent, of salt, 
and a large quantity of carbonic acid. Patients 
taking such baths should lie quietly, in order to allow 
the gas bubbles to accumulate on the skin, and pro- 
duce the stimulating effect on the peripheric nerves. 
After the bath, moderate active exercise is recom- 
mended. Plain saline water baths (containing no 
carbonic acid) are also given in the Soolbadehaus. 
The Sooldunstbad (saline vapour bath) is a large 
domed inhalation-room where the saline water is 
atomized by falling down from a fountain of con- 
siderable height. The air of the room, which has a 
temperature of 8?°, is very moist, and thoroughly 
saturated with minute particles of salt. It contains 
from two to four per cent, of carbonic acid. These 
inhalations are highly praised for chronic nasal, 
pharyngeal, and bronchial cattarhs. 

Whey, the inevitable requisite of a continental spa, 
is also prepared at Rehme, and of course by a genuine 
Swiss. 

The thermal saline baths {Thermalsoolbdder) are 
especially recommended — 

(1) In paralysis. The splendid results obtained in 



2l6 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

cases of paralysis have established the high reputation 
of the thermal saline baths. Bathing forms the 
principal portion of the treatment, the drinking being 
considered by competent authors as useless, and even 
injurious, as the exercise which is required in order to 
digest the water causes unnecessary fatigue to patients 
who need rest and recreation. 

(2) In spinal irritation and hysterics. There is 
hardly any doubt that the thermal saline baths act 
beneficially, not only by the stimulating effect pro- 
duced by the carbonic acid and the salt, but more so 
by the temperature, which is lower than that of other 
mineral baths, and therefore more invigorating. 

(3) In cases of protracted convalescence, especially 
after typhoid, scarlet fever, &c. 

(4) In muscular rheumatism. 

(5) In scrofula. Rehme rivals with Kreuznach in 
the treatment of scrofulous diseases. 

(6) In atony of the skin. The treatment consists in 
baths, whose temperature is gradually diminished. 
Great results are claimed at Rehme from this 
treatment. 

Nauheim has three thermal saline springs (brines), 
which are used for bathing : the Friedrich- Wilhelms 
Sprudel (96 ), Grosse Sprudel (89 ), and Kleine 
Sprudel ; the last one is at present used for carbonic 
acid baths. To increase the strength of the water, 
Mutterlauge is added. 

These thermal saline baths (Thermalsoolbader), 
which are very rich in carbonic acid, are applied for 
the same affections as those of Rehme. Professor 
Beneke, of Nauheim, praises their great efficacy in 



SALINE WATERS. 2\J 



cases of articular rheumatism, especially when as- 
sociated with heart disease, in scrofula, disorders of 
the uterus, and in eruptions of the skin, particularly 
eozema. Contrary to the opinion of other balneolo- 
gists, Professor Beneke claims to have achieved 
splendid results from the treatment of skin diseases by 
mild saline baths, combined with the application of 
cold showerbaths. 

Soden has also a thermal saline spring, with a 
considerable amount of carbonic acid, and a tempera- 
ture of 86°. These baths act very beneficially on 
delicate scrofulous patients affected with bronchial 
catarrhs. 



2l8 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 



CHAPTER III. 

SULPHUR WATERS. 

A achen (Aix-la-Chapelle) — Neundorf — Eilsen — Mein- 
berg — Weilbach — Alveneu — Le Prese — Burtscheid 
— Landeck — Baden (near Vienna) — Baden (Swit- 
zerland). 

THE peculiar odour emanating from sulphur waters 
has at all times attracted the attention of men, who 
being unable to explain the phenomenon, suspected 
something mysterious therein, and therefore at- 
tributed a singular power to these waters. Chemical 
analysis has demonstrated that the sulphurous odour 
is due to the presence of a gas called sulphuretted 
hydrogen, which emanates from almost all sulphur 
springs, though in greater quantity from the cold 
sulphur waters than from the thermal ones. This gas, 
though present only in a very small quantity, must 
be considered the principal effective constituent. An- 
other gas, called nitrogen, and several mineral in- 
gredients, as sulphate of lime and soda, chloride of 
sodium, and carbonate of soda, are also constituents 
of these waters. An organic substance, called baregine, 
is produced by decomposition of confervse and algae, 
which usually are present in sulphur waters. On the 



SULPHUR WATERS. 2ig 

whole, they are nothing else but very weak solutions 
of those mineral constituents in water. 

The most constant and most efficient constituent is 
the sulpJmretted hydrogen. If carried into the blood 
through the lungs, or the skin, or the intestines, it 
soon permeates all tissues, but is soon again eliminated 
through the lungs and skin. This gas, when inhaled 
in a large quantity, is a strong poison ; and even small 
quantities inhaled for a longer time produce a 
poisonous effect ; when absorbed by the skin, it acts 
in the same manner. It destroys the muscular con- 
tractility ; and muscular debility is a specific symptom 
of poisoning by sulphuretted hydrogen. When in- 
haled by the lungs, it proves sedative ; the frequency 
of the pulse is diminished, and dizziness of the head, 
vertigo, and muscular debility are soon noticed. 

Large doses of sulphur water produce analogous 
symptoms, the gas being absorbed by the capillary 
vessels of the stomach. It is also contended that this 
absorption produces turgescence of the skin, increased 
perspiration and secretion from the various mucous 
membranes and the kidneys. Sulphur-water baths 
retard the action of the heart and the respiration, and 
cause a feeling of comfort and ease. If the water is 
strongly impregnated with the gas, it acts as a 
stimulant on the skin, producing a pricking, burning 
sensation. 

It appears from the experiments of competent 
scientists, that sulphur, carried into the system by the 
drinking of sulphur water, promotes the activity of 
the liver, increases the secretion of the bile, and ac- 
celerates the circulation in the large abdominal veins ; 



220 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

it therefore seems rational to resort to sulphur springs 
in affections of the liver, as for instance, enlargement 
and congestion, and in cases of retarded circulation of 
the abdominal vessels, which is considered the cause 
of hemorrhoids. Moreover, the liver being considered 
the principal receptacle of all metallic poisons, it is 
presumed that the sulphur by its specific action on 
that organ eliminates such poisons from the system. 
The efficacy of sulphur waters in cases of metallic 
poisoning seems to be generally conceded. Their 
operation on the skin is manifested by an increased 
turgescence and perspiration, and by a sedative effect on 
the cutaneous nerves ; this action might perhaps account 
for the beneficial results obtained by sulphur waters 
in the treatment of rheumatism and several diseases 
of the skin. The secretions of the mucous membranes 
are also increased, and the tissues are relaxed ; sulphur 
springs are therefore recommended as proper curative 
agents for chronic catarrhs of the respiratory organs. 

Of the other mineral ingredients which materially 
contribute to the efficacy of these waters, the chloride 
of sodium is the most important. It is present in 
considerable amount in some of the sulphur waters, 
and is a valuable auxiliary, as it improves the di- 
gestion and assimilation. It is contended that those 
sulphur waters which contain this salt are the most 
digestible, and some authors attribute a large share 
of the success attained at the sulphur spas to the 
presence of that mineral. 

The popular belief in sulphur and sulphur waters 
attributes the splendid results which undoubtedly are 
achieved at these spas, almost solely to the presence 



SULPHUR WATERS. 221 

of that time-honoured mineral ; but the quantity of 
sulphur in these springs being extremely small, 
balneologists express a less enthusiastic opinion of its 
therapeutic value. Braun, an authority in balneology, 
though not depreciating the efficacy of the sulphur 
springs, entirely denies their specific effects when ex- 
ternally applied, and compares their therapeutic action 
to that of the indifferent thermal waters. 

The internal administration of the sulphur water 
is en vogue at almost all the sulphur spas ; it is taken 
either pure, or mixed with milk, whey, or purgative 
salts. Patients commence by taking five or six 
ounces, gradually increasing the quantity to forty or 
fifty ounces ; the cold sulphur water is often warmed, 
in order to render it more agreeable to the stomach. 

The temperature of the baths varies between 92 
and 96 , a higher temperature (105 ) being only 
applied at the celebrated Hungarian Herculesbad. 
The duration of a bath is from thirty minutes to one 
hour, and even three hours ; one bath a day is the 
rule, but at some spas a bath is taken in the morning 
and another in the evening. Common baths for the 
simultaneous use of both sexes are still in operation 
at Baden (Austria), Landeck, &c. Ascending and 
descending douches are in general use, especially 
warm ones. The descending douches have a strong 
absorbing power, while the others, chiefly administered 
in the shape of uterine douches, are considered power- 
ful stimulants. The vapour arising from the warm 
sulphur water is used for vapour baths, the tempera- 
ture of which depends on that of the water ; after the 
bath a sweat in blankets is usually taken. As these 



222 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

baths bring on a profuse perspiration, they are very 
valuable auxiliaries in the treatment of rheumatic and 
cutaneous affections. 

Great stress is laid upon the inhalation of the 
sulphuretted hydrogen which rises from the surface of 
the sulphur water, and inhalation-rooms are established 
at most of the sulphur spas. The gas is inhaled 
either pure or mixed with other gases, viz. carbonic 
acid and nitrogen. These inhalations have proved 
efficacious in chronic catarrh of the throat and the 
bronchial tubes ; but consumptive patients are advised 
to abstain from them, as hemorrhages of the lungs 
often ensue from their use. The inhalation of atomized 
sulphur water is also practised at many sulphur 
spas. 

The most popular appliances at these places are 
the sulphur mud baths, which there are fully as much 
favoured as the peat baths are at other watering 
places. The mud is a deposit of the sulphur water, 
containing sulphur, sulphuretted hydrogen, and or- 
ganic substances. Peat mixed with sulphur water, and 
impregnated with sulphuretted hydrogen, is also used. 
The temperature of a mud bath is about 100°, its 
duration from fifteen to sixty minutes. These baths 
are claimed to possess great curative power for stiff- 
ness and thickening of the joints caused by rheuma- 
tism, for paralysis, and especially for sciatica. 

The sulphur springs are divided into cold and warm 
springs. 

i. Cold Sulphur Waters. 
NEUNDORF has three sulphur springs of 50 , con- 



SULPHUR WATERS. 223 

taining a considerable amount of sulphuretted hydro- 
gen, sulphate of lime (gypsum), and carbonate of lime; 
the water is applied in every shape — as bath, mud 
bath, gas bath, douche, and, mixed with saline water, 
as saline sulphur bath. The majority of invalids who 
visit the place are rheumatic and gouty patients ; 
cutaneous diseases, syphilis, and mercurial affections, 
are also successfully treated. 

ElLSEN has ten sulphur springs, four of which are 
used. Temperature 53 . These are very strong 
sulphur waters, containing a considerable amount of 
sulphuretted hydrogen and sulphate of lime ; one of 
them, the Georgenbrunnen, is used for drinking, and 
then is generally mixed with milk. The mud baths, 
which enjoy a great reputation, contain much humic 
acid. 

MEINBERG'S sulphur water has sulphate of lime 
and soda, and sulphuretted hydrogen, though less of 
the latter than that of Eilsen and Neundorf ; the spa 
has also very efficacious sulphur mud. It possesses 
two springs, the Alt- and Neu-brunnen, which are 
very rich in carbonic acid ; the gas is used for inhala- 
tions and baths. Another spring, the Schieder- or 
Salz-qnelle, containing a considerable amount of 
chloride of sodium and carbonic acid, is exclusively 
used for drinking. 

The sulphur water, saline water, and carbonic acid 
are applied in divers combinations, and recommended 
for rheumatism, gout, scrofulosis, bronchial catarrh, 
and uterine affections. 

Weilbach'S sulphur water has carbonate of soda 
chloride of sodium, and a small amount of sul- 



224 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

phuretted hydrogen. Temperature 56 . Owing to the 
presence of the alkalies the water is well digestible ; 
it increases the appetite, and promotes the activity of 
the mucous membranes. It is highly recommended 
in cases of enlarged liver, hemorrhoids, and chronic 
catarrhs of the respiratory organs. 

Alveneu has a cold spring of 50 , which contains 
sulphate of lime, and a small amount of sulphuretted 
hydrogen, and is used for bathing and drinking. The 
high elevation of the spa, and the pure, bracing, moun- 
tain air, contribute greatly to the efficacy of the water, 
which is useful in cases of congestions of the ab- 
dominal organs, scrofulous affections, and bronchial 
catarrhs, &c. 

Le Prese has a sulphur spring of 46 , whose 
chemical composition and therapeutical application 
is analogous to that of Alveneu. The climate is 
mild, though the elevation is 3000 feet above the sea. 

2. Warm Sulphur Waters. 

Aachen (Aix-la-Chapelle). — The thermal waters 
of Aachen contain only a moderate quantity of sul- 
phuretted hydrogen, but a considerable amount of 
chloride of sodium, carbonate of soda, and sulphate 
of soda. This combination of salt is very important, 
as it renders the water very suitable for internal use. 
The high temperature of the springs and the most 
elaborate method of bathing are very important 
factors for the success of the treatment. The great 
reputation of Aachen as a sulphur spa is well de- 
served ; thousands of invalids have been restored to 



SULPHUR WATERS. 225 

health by the use of its springs ; and notwithstanding 
the severe criticism of sceptical authors, the confi- 
dence of physicians and patients is unshaken, and 
the number of visitors steadily increasing. 

The Kaiser quelle has a temperature of 13 2°, the 
other springs have 113 — 120° The considerable 
amount of chloride of sodium which is contained in 
the sulphur springs of Aachen, gives them a great 
advantage over other sulphur waters. The water is 
applied in every possible shape — as bath, douche, 
atomized water, &c. Vapour baths are also ex- 
tensively used. The shampooing and kneading, which 
is an essential part of the treatment, is performed in 
a most thorough manner, and the douches are carefully 
and skilfully applied by the well-trained doucheurs. 

The treatment of venereal diseases is a kind of 
speciality at Aachen, and great success is claimed by 
the bath physicians. But there are other diseases 
equally as much benefited, especially rheumatic and 
gouty affections, cutaneous diseases, paralysis, neu- 
ralgia, metallic poisoning, catarrhs of the throat, and 
bronchial affections. 

• BURTSCHEID'S waters are similar to those of 
Aachen. 

The Victoriaquelle, which is used for drinking, does 
not contain so much sulphur as the Aachen springs, 
but the temperature is higher (142 ). The same 
diseases are treated there as at Aachen. 

LANDECK's springs contain a small quantity of 
sulphur and carbonate of soda. Two are used for 
drinking — the Mariannenquelle (71 ) and Wiesen- 
quelle (So ) ; three others forbathing. These waters 

Q 



226 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 



are highly recommended for neuralgies (particularly 
of the face), and for uterine affections which are 
associated with congestions of the abdominal organs. 

Baden (near Vienna). — These springs contain a 
large amount of lime, and more sulphuretted hydro- 
gen than those of Aachen. Their temperature varies 
from 79 — 104 . The Romerquelle (Roman well) is 
used for drinking, the other numerous wells for 
bathing. Scrofula, and catarrhs of the respiratory 
organs, are very much benefited ; rheumatism, gout, 
cutaneous diseases, and mercurial affections, are also 
treated with great success. 

Baden (in Switzerland) has numerous springs, 
which contain only a small quantity of sulphuretted 
hydrogen, and of chloride of sodium and lime ; but 
their temperature is high (116 ). Twenty-one of 
them are used for bathing ; the therapeutical appli- 
cation is analogous to that of the Aachen springs. 
Rheumatism, gout, metallic poisoning, neuralgies, and 
chronic catarrhs, are the principal objects of treat- 
ment. 

The following table shows the amount of sulphur 
present in the above-mentioned waters : 
Neundorf 



Eilsen 


. 0-0578. 


Meinberg 


. 0*0366. 


Baden (Vienna) 


. 0-0117. 


Weilbach 


. 0*0073. 


Aachen . 


. 0*0056. 


Baden (Swiss) . 


. 0*0025. 


Landeck 


. o*oo 1 6. 


Burtscheid 


. 0*0007. 



IRON WATERS. 22J 



CHAPTER IV. 

IRON WATERS. 

Pyrmont — St. Moritz — Dribicrg — Elsfer — Franzens- 
bad — Homburg — Booklet — Briickenau — Cudowa — 
Reinerz — Langenschivalbach. 

The iron waters to a great extent shared the fate of 
the sulphur waters ; once universally applied as a 
panacea for all sorts of incurable diseases, they 
gradually came into some disfavour with the members 
of the medical profession, especially with regard to 
their external application, though the belief of the 
large majority of patients in the magical power of 
iron was never much shaken. During the first 
quarter of the present century, the chalybeate springs 
were more patronized by physicians and the public 
than the other mineral waters; this was the period 
when bleeding was still very popular, and most ex- 
tensively applied in every disease which was called 
by that ominous term inflammation. Bleeding was 
the first and indispensable remedy which had to be 
applied before all others ; and every physician found 
guilty of neglecting the frequent use of that life- 
saving little instrument called the lancet, would have 
lost the confidence of his patients. Even nowadays 

Q 2 



228 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

bleeding is very popular in Italy, to the great detri- 
ment of the public ; and it is positively asserted that 
the celebrated Cavour, the greatest statesman Italy 
ever had, perished in consequence of the frequent 
venesections, administered by his physicans. 

By the liberal application of the lancet, patients 
who were fortunate enough to survive were so much 
debilitated, and so much impoverished in blood, the 
most essential element of the human body, that they 
repaired as speedily as possible to those springs 
which were considered infallible means of restoring 
tuto, cito, etjucimde, i. e. surely, quickly, and pleasantly, 
the quality and quantity of the blood. 

Bleeding being almost entirely abandoned at the 
present time, the number of anaemic convalescents 
after inflammatory diseases has largely diminished, 
and consequently to a certain extent, the patronage 
of the iron spas. Nevertheless, there are always 
enough patients, especially of the fair sex, who are 
obliged to resort to them for the restoration of 
health. 

There are some who doubt the efficacy of the iron 
waters on account of the very small quantity of iron 
contained therein. But experience has sufficiently 
proved their curative power ; and though scepticism is 
the basis of all science and progress, we should not 
be too sceptical when practice demonstrates a fact 
which seemingly is not in accordance with theory. 
Small doses of iron internally administered, are able 
to produce a wholesome effect, and iron baths, though 
the non-absorption of the iron is generally conceded, 
do act highly beneficially ; whether this benefit be 



IRON WATERS. 229 



obtained by the presence of the carbonic acid, or by 
the temperature of the water, patients do not inquire. 

On the Internal Use of Iron Water. 

Iron is an important constituent of the body, and 
of the nutriments which are consumed in order to 
maintain it. It is present in the blood, and its pre- 
sence therein is of paramount necessity, the system 
being unable to properly perform its regular functions 
if the quantity of iron is much decreased. An adult 
has about nine pounds of blood, which contain from 
thirty to forty grains of iron. The muscles (popularly 
called " flesh) also contain iron, fifty pounds of muscle 
having about sixteen grains of iron. Our nutriments, 
especially meat, furnish the necessary quantity of 
iron we need for the support of our system. Animal 
diet, therefore, is very well suitable in cases where an 
increase of iron is aimed at, and a good beefsteak 
often operates far better than iron pills or mixtures. 
Suppuration, excessive secretions, especially diarrhoea, 
diminish the quantity of iron. The iron which the 
system receives by means of the food, goes to the 
blood, and is carried to the several organs ; but a 
portion of it is eliminated by the secretions. The 
bile, for instance, which is richer in iron than the 
other secretions, leaves the body mixed with the 
passages, carrying off iron ; urine also contains a small 
quantity of iron. If iron is administered medicinally, 
only a small portion is absorbed, while the larger 
part passes off as sulphate of iron, giving the faeces a 
black or greenish colour. The absorbed portion goes 



230 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

partly to the blood-corpuscles ; partly to the several 
secretions. The system absorbs and assimilates only 
a certain quantity of iron, and cannot be forced to go 
beyond that — as many believe, who consume a large 
amount of iron in the shape of pills or mineral water ; 
the superfluous iron is at all events eliminated, either 
by the intestinal canal or the other secretions. If 
the quantity of the red blood corpuscles is diminished, 
which occurs in anaemic persons, the internal use of 
small doses of iron augments their number. Iron 
waters contain only small quantities of iron, chiefly 
in the form of carbonate of iron ; a patient in drink- 
ing thirty-five or forty ounces of the water in the 
morning, consumes only about half a grain of iron, 
which probably is absorbed ; and during the usual 
course of four weeks he would consequently have 
assimilated about fourteen grains. Small as this 
quantity may seem, the case appears different when 
we take into consideration that the whole quantity 
of iron in the blood amounts only to thirty or forty 
grains, and that a loss of twelve grains suffices to 
produce a high degree of anaemia. It is therefore 
obvious that a gain of fourteen grains within twenty- 
eight days is sufficient to restore the blood to its 
normal state (Valentiner). This plain reasoning 
seems plausible, and probably explains the wonderful 
effects of the iron waters in cases of anaemia, which 
means blood poor in iron. 

Iron waters improve the appetite, provided that 
the digestive organs are in proper condition ; if the 
mucous membrane of the stomach or intestines is in- 
flamed, iron water is not well tolerated. The latter 



IRON WATERS. 23 1 



acts as an astringent on the mucous membrane of 
the intestinal canal, and is often used with great 
advantage in chronic diarrhoea. It having been 
proved by recent experiments, that the internal use 
of iron increases the temperature of the body, it is 
evident that iron water should not be used in inflam- 
matory or febrile cases ; and the experience of bath 
physicians corroborates this fact. 

Bicarbonate of iron being the principal chemical 
ingredient of the iron waters, its presence in a mineral 
water would make it a chalybeate spring, provided 
that the predominating effect of such a water be 
in reality that of the iron ; for bicarbonate of iron is 
a constituent of a great many mineral waters, without 
however, having any visible effect, the other mineral 
ingredients being the real active factors. 

Besides the iron, there is in most of these waters 
another, not less important and not less efficacious 
constituent, namely, the carbonic acid, which we have 
already mentioned in former chapters ; iron waters 
are even richer in it than the saline waters. By its 
stimulating effect on the stomach this gas ren- 
ders them more digestible ; and by disguising the 
astringent and inky taste of the iron, it makes them 
more palatable. The stimulative action of the gas 
on the nervous system, undoubtedly increases the 
efficacy of these springs. 

The temperature of the iron waters is generally 
low, ranging from 46 — 64 , and must be raised for 
bathing. To avoid a great loss of carbonic acid, 
several appliances for the heating of the iron water 
are in operation, the best method being that of 



2 32 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

Schwartz, according to which the water is heated by 
steam pipes running underneath the bathing tubs. 
For internal use the iron water is also often warmed, 
as many patients, especially young girls, do not well 
digest the cold springs. 

The action of the iron waters is somewhat modified 
by the presence of several other mineral constituents, 
especially of carbonate of soda, chloride of sodium, 
and sulphate of soda. As the two first-named have a 
stimulating effect on the mucous membranes of the 
stomach and the bronchial tubes, the chalybeate 
waters which contain them will be successfully em- 
ployed in chronic catarrhs of the respiratory and 
digestive organs ; while those containing sulphate of 
soda are eminently adapted for anaemic patients, who 
suffer from constipation, or enlargement of the liver 
or spleen. Other iron waters, wherein lime is a pre- 
vailing ingredient, are beneficial in chronic diarrhcea. 

Iron waters are almost exclusively recommended 
for that frequent malady of young girls, called chlorosis, 
in which the number of the blood-corpuscles is very 
much diminished. A pale face, bloodless appearance 
of the lips, general debility manifested at every active 
exercise, palpitation of the heart produced by the 
slightest bodily exertion, nervous irritability, and 
general relaxation, are the symptoms which alarm 
the relatives of the fair patient, and cause them to 
seek medical advice. Iron waters are the sovereign 
and never-failing remedy for this disease. 

Ancemia is no disease in itself, but is a symptom 
accompanying various diseases, especially those con- 
nected with a great loss of humors, and signifies a 



IRON WATERS. 233 



deterioration of the blood, which is thinner, and poorer 
in red corpuscles. It is caused by hemorrhages, by 
prolonged suppuration of wounds, chronic diarrhoea, 
and similar discharges, which exert a debilitating 
influence upon the system. Such cases derive great 
advantage from the use of iron waters. Convales- 
cents from typhoid and intermittent fevers, or inflam- 
matory diseases, are also much benefited. These 
waters also render great service in cases of neuralgia, 
impotence, and enlargement of the spleen. 

On the External Use of Iron Waters. 

The time has passed when iron baths were con- 
sidered the most effectual of all baths on account of 
the large quantity of iron supposed to be absorbed 
by the skin ; nevertheless the majority of patients 
visiting iron spas adhere to that obsolete theory. It 
is always right to come out with the truth, even at 
the risk of producing an uneasy feeling ; for unplea- 
sant indeed it may be to many who strongly advocate 
the use of iron waters, to give up that long-cherished 
theory of the absorption of the iron by the skin. The 
harsh hand of science mercilessly destroys all pre- 
judices and erroneous doctrines ; and the absorption 
by the skin, be it of iron or other remedies, has for 
a long time been a favourite doctrine among phy- 
siologists, who could not otherwise explain the 
wholesome effect of a salt or iron bath. The most 
enthusiastic authors on iron waters do not at present 
believe in that dogma. Nevertheless, nobody would 
deny that these waters are strong remedies, and 



234 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

operate effectually on the system ; but this action is 
solely obtained by means of the temperature and the 
carbonic acid. This powerful agent, whose action on 
the skin has been sufficiently explained in a preceding 
chapter (see Saline Baths), seems to be the most im- 
portant and efficient element in the iron baths. The 
stimulating effect which it exerts upon the whole 
nervous system, cannot fail to enliven the whole pro- 
cess of nutrition and assimilation, and to promote the 
change of tissue. As plain water baths already have 
a similar beneficial effect on the system, this effect 
must necessarily be increased by the action of the 
carbonic acid ; and competent authors have in fact 
demonstrated that chalybeate baths, rich in carbonic 
acid, far more improve the digestion and nutrition than 
common water baths. We are therefore entitled to 
define the external action of iron waters containing a 
sufficient quantity of carbonic acid, as one stimulating 
to the nervous system and aiding the change of tissue. 
Patients when taking iron baths should keep quiet 
during the whole time they remain in the water ; 
from time to time they may gently rub off the gas- 
bubbles which accumulate on the surface of the body ; 
soon again innumerable bubbles will cover the skin, 
and a pleasant feeling of warmth spread over the 
whole system. To prevent the gas from escaping, the 
bathing tubs at some watering places are covered 
with blankets or wooden coverings. Half an hour's 
time is quite sufficient for a bath. Sometimes these 
baths cause head-ache, palpitations of the heart, 
disturbed sleep, &c. ; if these symptoms of nervous 
excitement occur, the duration of the bath should 



IRON WATERS. 235 



be shortened to fifteen or twenty minutes, or the bath 
should be taken every other day, or diluted with com- 
mon water. 

The temperature of the iron bath need not be so 
high as that of the common warm bath, as the carbonic 
acid produces that feeling of warmth which otherwise 
is attained by higher degrees of heat. Therefore a 
temperature of 84 , which would be rather low for an 
invalid taking a plain water bath, is generally sufficient 
for a chalybeate bath. Such a bath has a tonic 
bracing effect, and patients feel quite comfortable 
while in it. For patients of great nervous irritability, 
or for those not possessing sufficient reacting power, 
the temperature may be raised to 88°. 

We shall now proceed to enumerate the principal 
iron springs, the names of which are already familiar 
to those who have perused the second part of this book. 

BOOKLET has one iron spring, very rich in carbonic 
acid and with an abundance of water. The bathing 
house has eighteen bathing-rooms, partly used for 
peat baths. 

BRuCKENAU has three springs, with a considerable 
quantity of carbonic acid and only a small amount of 
iron. Seven thousand baths are given during the 
season, one-third being peat baths. 

CUDOWA has three chalybeate springs, the Haupt- 
quelle, Gasquelle, and Oberbrunnen. Besides a con- 
siderable quantity of carbonic acid, they contain a 
fair amount of carbonate of soda and Glaubersalt, but 
not much iron. The spa has two bathing-houses with 
forty-eight bathing-rooms ; gas, peat, and vapour 
baths are also applied. 



236 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

DRIBURG has three iron springs, the Haufitquelle, 
Wiesenquelle, and Kaiser- Wilhelms quelle, all containing 
a considerable amount of iron and carbonic acid. 

Elster has six springs, which contain iron, Glauber- 
salt, soda, and carbonic acid. One of them, the Salz- 
quelle, rather belongs to the alkaline-saline springs 
(where it has already been mentioned), the iron 
therein not being of much account, while the other 
five springs have a considerable quantity of iron, 
Glaubersalt, and carbonic acid. The Moritzquelle is 
the richest in iron, the Albertsquelle in soda, and 
Glaubersalt Fifty thousand baths are given during the 
season, the fifth part of which are peat baths. Whey, 
that indispensable requisite of most of the Continental 
watering places, is also prepared. 

Franzensbad's iron waters are similar to those of 
Elster — iron, carbonic acid, soda, and Glaubersalt 
being the principal chemical constituents. The 
quantity of iron is small compared to that of the 
salts, and hardly sufficient to effect a speedy cure in 
chloratic cases, but the large amount of carbonic 
acid gas renders the waters very efficient. Great 
attention is paid to the bathing, especially to peat 
baths. 

The Franzensbad iron water is recommended for 
congestions of the abdominal organs, and especially 
for disorders of the uterine system when associated 
with an anaemic disposition. The Eger Salzquelle 
is an alkaline-saline water (already enumerated among 
these), and operates in the same manner as the similar 
springs of Marienbad. Of the other springs, which 
are chalybeate springs, the Franzensquelle is the most 



IRON WATERS. 237 



reputed ; the Wiesenquelle is next in popularity, and 
the Stahlquelle has the largest quantity of iron. 

HOMBURG has also a chalybeate spring, the Stahl- 
brunnen, which contains a large amounnt of iron and 
carbonic acid. 

St. Moritz has two springs, the A lie- and Nene- 
Quelle. This spa has a predominant reputation as an 
iron spa, though its water contains only a moderate 
quantity of iron, and bears no comparison with the 
strong iron w r aters of Pyrmont or Schwalbach. But 
the presence of a considerable amount of carbonic 
acid, and the excellent pure fresh mountain air, will at 
all times insure for this place a prominent position 
among the chalybeate spas. In cases where the 
digestion and nutrition are much impaired, and in 
anaemic associated with great torpidity of the system, 
the water and climate of St. Moritz are of the greatest 
benefit. 

PYRMONT, for centuries the most frequented and 
celebrated iron spa in Germany, has three iron springs 
(the salt spring has already been mentioned in 
Chapter II.). The water is one of the strongest iron 
waters on the Continent, and contains a very large 
amount of carbonic acid. Pyrmont has the advantage 
over other spas of possessing a first class iron and 
saline spring, alternately employed according to the 
requirements of the cases. The waters are eminently 
useful in anaemia, especially when associated with 
catarrhs of the digestive organs, in various nervous 
diseases — as St. Vitus's dance, nervous headache, 
hysterics, nervous debility, in disorders of the uterine 
system, in impotence produced by seminal loss, &c. 



238 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

REINERZ has three iron springs, which are employed 
for drinking — the Lauequelle, Ulrickenquelle and Kalte- 
quelle, the first being the richest in iron. There is a 
bathing house with sixty-three bathing-rooms, where 
30,000 baths are given during the season ; peat baths 
are also prepared. Diseases of the respiratory organs 
compose the majority of cases treated at Reinerz ; 
but quite a number of patients affected with disorders 
of the digestive and uterine system also patronize the 
spa. 

LANGENSCHWALBACH or SCHWALBACH has very 
efficacious iron springs, which are very rich in iron and 
carbonic acid, and contain a very small amount of 
magnesia and lime. There are seven springs, two of 
which, the Stahlbrunnen ,and Weinbrunnen, are used 
for drinking. 

This spa is at present one of the most popular and 
most frequented iron spas on the continent. 



EARTHY WATERS. 239 



CHAPTER V. 

EARTHY WATERS. 

Lipp springe —Inselbad — Wildnngen—Leuk — Bormio. 

MINERAL waters in which carbonate of lime (lime- 
stone), or sulphate of lime (gypsum), and magnesia 
are the predominant chemical ingredients, are called 
earthy waters, or lime waters. Lime is present in all 
tissues and organs of the human body ; it is the 
essential constituent of the bones, in the form of 
phosphate of lime. We daily introduce a consider- 
able quantity of lime into the body by means of our 
nutriments. All vegetable and animal food contains 
it ; the meat we eat contains phosphate of lime in no 
insignificant proportion, and in all the water we drink 
lime is also present. Thus it is evident that lime is 
furnished by the food in sufficient quantity for the 
support of the body. 

In mineral waters lime occurs as carbonate and 
sulphate of lime ; the latter being indigestible, most 
of it passes off through the alimentary canal ; a por- 
tion of the carbonate of lime is absorbed if the 
mineral water is taken on an empty stomach ; the 
rest passes off with the alvine excretions. In what 
manner the carbonate of lime acts on the system, we 



24O WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

cannot sufficiently explain. The carbonate of lime 
and magnesia, when taken in small doses, are well 
borne by the stomach ; as they neutralize the acids 
of the gastric juice, they are often applied in ir- 
regularities of the digestion caused by excessive 
acidity. Lime retards the action of the bowels and 
checks diarrhoea ; carbonate of magnesia acts as a 
mild aperient when taken in large doses. 

There exists a disease of children, called rachitis 
(rickets), which is caused by a deficiency of lime in 
the bones, and for a long time the extensive internal 
application of lime water was considered an infallible 
remedy for it. But there is some error in this theory, 
as too large quantities of lime employed for the cure 
of rachitis are of no value at all ; for the cause of the 
disease is not that too small a quantity of lime is 
consumed by the little patients, but that too small a 
quantity is absorbed and assimilated, the stomach of 
the patient not being in proper working order, and 
unable to absorb the necessary quantity. As long as 
this deficiency exists, it is evidently useless to over- 
load the digestive apparatus with huge draughts of 
lime water, of which the greater portion would pass 
off without any benefit to the patient. In such cases 
small doses are profitable, in order to neutralize the 
acidity and augment the activity of the stomach. 

Lime has an astringent and exsiccating effect on 
the mucous membranes ; it is therefore not only used 
in profuse secretions of the alimentary canal (in 
diarrhoea), but also in excessive secretions of the 
bronchial tubes and catarrhs of the genito-urinary 
system. 






EARTHY WATERS. 24 1 

In addition to lime and magnesia, the earthy waters 
contain a small quantity of common salt, and more or 
less iron and carbonic acid. 

These waters are profitably employed as baths ; 
but as neither lime nor magnesia is absorbed by the 
skin, it is presumed that their efficacy, when externally 
applied, rests with their temperature and the carbonic 
acid. 

Earthy waters are recommended in cases of rachitis, 
anaemia, scrofula, gravel, catarrh of the bladder and 
the respiratory organs. 

Of all the spas mentioned in our topographical 
review, only five belong to the class of the earthy 
waters, namely, Lippspringe, Inselbad, Wildungen, 
Leuk, Bormio. 

Lippspringe. — Its principal spring, the Arminius- 
qtielle, enjoys a very great reputation, and contains 
limestone, gypsum, and a small amount of iron ; the 
gases emanating from the spring are composed of 
eighty-seven per cent, nitrogen and thirteen per cent, 
carbonic acid. Great stress is laid upon the inhalation 
of these gases, which are praised as very effectual in 
consumption, catarrh of the throat and bronchial tubes, 
and in asthma. The nitrogen is pretended to have a 
sedative effect, while the carbonic acid is exciting. 
It is asserted that consumptive patients while inhaling 
the gaseous moist air feel comfortable and relieved, 
that the respiration becomes freer and deeper, that 
the irritation of the mucous membrane, which causes 
the troublesome cough, is appeased, and the frequency 
of the pulse diminished ; even neuralgic pains are 
soon relieved. There seems to be no doubt that the 

R 



242 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

water of Lippspringe and the inhalation of the 
nitrogen are very wholesome for catarrhs of the larynx 
and the bronchial tubes ; their efficacy in the early 
stages of consumption has been proved, according to 
the reports of experienced bath physicians, in a very 
large number of cases, and we cannot question the 
veracity of scientific men, who base their accounts 
upon the observations of many years. 

INSELBAD has three springs — the Ottilien quelle y 
which is richer in nitrogen and chloride of sodium 
than the Arminiusquelle at Lippspringe, the Bade- 
quelle, of the same chemical composition as the former, 
and the Marienquelle, an iron water with a consider- 
able amount of bicarbonate of iron (0*058) . There 
are two inhalation-rooms, where the nitrogen 
emanating from the Ottilienqitelle is inhaled by 
patients suffering from affections of the lungs. As 
this spring has less carbonic acid than the Arminius- 
quelle, it is less exciting, and acts more sedative. 
Several apparatuses for the inhalation of the atomized 
water are in the same rooms. Diseases of the larynx 
and the lungs are the specialties treated at this place. 
The large swimming bath and the use of the iron 
water are very suitable for convalescents and anaemic 
patients. 

WlLDUNGEN has numerous springs, of which only 
five are used, all very rich in carbonic acid. Besides 
lime and magnesia, they contain carbonate of iron. 
The Helenenquelle, Kbnigsquelle, and Georg Victors- 
quelle are the most popular. Wildungen's waters 
have an immense reputation as a specific for catarrh 
of the bladder, swelling of the prostatic gland, and 



EARTHY WATERS. 243 



gravel ; they are also useful in catarrh of the stomach 
and the intestines, anaemia, and general debility. 

Leuk has twenty-two springs. The Lorenzquelle, 
which is used for drinking, contains limestone, gyp- 
sum, and a small amount of carbonic acid. Its action 
on the bowels is astringent and constipating. The 
rigid method of bathing, as applied at Leuk in the 
shape of immersions of several hours' duration, is 
undoubtedly very apt to produce favourable results 
in chronic diseases of the skin, especially eczema and 
psoriasis, and in cases of thickenings of the joints, 
which so often accompany rheumatic and gouty 
affections. For a long time protracted warm water 
baths have been employed with great success by 
Hebra, the greatest living authority in dermatology. 
It seems obvious that the similar method applied at 
the warm mineral springs of Leuk, aided by the fresh, 
bracing mountain air of 4400 feet elevation, should 
also prove highly advantageous. A skin thoroughly 
macerated by long-continued immersions must neces- 
sarily throw off the old, diseased layers, and form 
new ones, a process by which alone inveterate cases 
may be permanently cured. By the same method, 
old atomic ulcerations of the leg are successfully 
treated. 

BORMIO possesses eight springs, which supply the 
old and new baths, and also furnish a muddy deposit, 
consisting of mineral ingredients and algae, used for 
mud baths. The water is poor in mineral ingredients, 
and poorer still in carbonic acid. But its high tem- 
perature (102 ), the beautiful situation of the place, 
the fresh, invigorating mountain air, are certainly apt 

R 2 



244 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

to prove beneficial in all such affections, which gene- 
rally are successfully treated by warm mineral waters, 
as rheumatism, gout, neuralgia, paralysis caused by 
suppressed perspiration of the skin, and divers female 
disorders. 

The application of mud baths materially aids the 
efficacy of the thermal waters. 



INDIFFERENT THERMAL WATERS. 245 






CHAPTER VI. 

INDIFFERENT THERMAL WATERS. 

Schlangenbad — Wildbad — Gastein — Teplitz — Ragatz- 
Pfaffers — jfohannisbad — Warmbrunn — Tobelbad 
— Neuhans— Tilffer — Rome r bad — Villach. 

A LARGE number of thermal waters occur in every 
part of the globe. They are called indifferent thermal 
waters, on account of the insignificant quantity of 
mineral constituents which they contain ; but the 
reader should not on that account infer that they are 
of little therapeutic value. By no means ; for the 
high temperature of these springs, and the salubrious 
air, exert a very beneficial influence on many chronic 
diseases. For a long time these waters were much 
neglected by physicians, who judge the efficacy of a 
mineral water solely by its chemical composition ; 
but they were restored to their proper rank among 
the mineral springs by experienced physicians, who, 
by careful and critical observation, proved their 
unquestionable curative effects, especially in many 
nervous affections. These effects are so striking, that 
the late Professor Romberg, of Berlin, one of the 
most celebrated neurologists, was wont to denomi- 



246 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

nate these baths nerve-baths. In Germany they are 
often called Wildbdder (wild baths), as they are gene- 
rally situated in wild, wooded, and hilly regions, 
some even on high Alpine heights. For two or three 
decades the indifferent thermal baths have become 
exceedingly popular, and the majority of them are 
crowded in the height of the season. 

As the temperature seems to be the only curative 
agent of these waters, some practitioners believe that 
common water, raised to the required heat, would 
have the same curative effect as have the indifferent 
thermal springs. But those who are acquainted with 
the latter through personal experience have come to 
a quite different conclusion. An attentive bather, 
when immersing himself into a thermal bath, will 
notice a very pleasant sensation, quite different from 
the one experienced in an artificially heated bath. 
This is no imagination, for experience has proved the 
superiority of the thermal baths. By what agency 
this pleasant sensation is produced cannot be stated ; 
nowadays we do not believe in that mysterious 
Brunnengeist (spirit of the well) of olden times, which 
was considered the invisible agent by which were 
accomplished those wonderful cures so often attained 
at these springs. 

The thermal water is clear, transparent, and odour- 
less ; in a large basin with a white bottom it presents 
a greenish appearance. Immersed into this water the 
patient experiences a delightful feeling of repose and 
comfort, and a very agreeable sensation of smooth- 
ness upon passing the hand over the skin. The 
water is soft and mild on account of the absence of 






INDIFFERENT THERMAL WATERS. 2\J 

salt and carbonic acid ; nitrogen and oxygen are 
present in considerable quantities. 

At some of the indifferent spas, the practice of 
drinking the thermal water is indulged in, although 
probably without any other effect than that of large 
draughts of warm water, i. e. that of diluting the con- 
tents of the stomach and the intestines, and increasing 
the secretions of the skin and the kidneys. The 
peristaltic action of the bowels is also gently pro- 
moted. 

But no importance is generally attached to the 
drinking, bathing being almost the only and all im- 
portant business at the Wilbdder. The effects of the 
baths vary according to the lower or higher tempera- 
ture of the water. Baths are taken either lukewarm 
or hot ; the temperature of the former varies from 
90 — 94 , and has no influence on the natural warmth 
of the body, which remains the same, no matter how 
long the bath may last. The lukewarm thermal bath 
increases the activity of the skin, and acts as a seda- 
tive on the cutaneous nerves ; the morbid irritability 
of the nerves decreases, and a feeling of quiet and 
comfort takes place. Such tepid thermal baths are 
therefore especially styled nerve-baths, and much 
patronized as such. Among them Schlangenbad 
takes the lead ; Johannisbad, Tabelbad, and Villach, 
belong to the same class. The pleasant location of 
these baths in quiet and picturesque regions, sur- 
rounded by woods and mountains, cannot be too 
highly appreciated, as such environs act in a calming, 
quieting manner on the mind of the patients, and aid 
the sedative action of the thermal water. Bath life 



248 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

at these spas is also generally a quiet one, and there- 
fore very well suited for nervous persons. 

The hot baths at the indifferent springs have a 
temperature of 96 — 106 . They increase the natural 
temperature of the body, accelerate the circulation 
of the blood, and produce a flow of the latter to 
the capillary vessels of the skin, causing thereon 
hyperemia, redness, and increased perspiration. Heat 
is motion, according to the doctrines of natural philo- 
sophy ; when the heat of the body is augmented, the 
smallest particles of the latter are set in a quicker 
motion. By this increased motion the adhesion of 
these minute molecules (atoms) is impaired, and the 
molecular attraction decreases. It is contended that 
such a process is produced by the hot thermal-baths, 
and the resolution and absorption of exudations is 
thereby perfected. This plausible theory is very well 
adapted to explain the splendid results achieved by 
the hot springs of Teplitz, Gastein, &c, in rheumatic 
exudations and similar affections. The effect of the 
hot bath is an exciting one, the irritability of the 
nervous system being increased. In consequence of 
the accelerated circulation of the blood and the 
greater fulness of the blood vessels, there is great 
danger of congestions of the internal organs, espe- 
cially of the brain and heart. Persons predisposed 
to congestions, or affected with diseases of the heart, 
should therefore not take hot baths. 

The best time for bathing is in the early morning, 
and with an empty stomach, provided the patient be 
not too much debilitated. After the bath, a short 
rest is advisable; rheumatic and gouty patients 



INDIFFERENT THERMAL WATERS. 249 

would do well to go to bed and take a good sweat in 
blankets. Those afflicted with neuralgia or paralysis, 
should avoid further perspiration after the bath ; to 
keep cool and take a little walk, will suit them better. 

It is the rule to take a bath every day, but weak 
persons should bathe only every other day. 

Douches and shower baths are employed at most 
of the spas, and contribute a great deal to the success 
of the treatment. They are powerful remedies, if 
properly applied, and should not be trifled with, as 
their injudicious application often proves very in- 
jurious. Patients should follow the advice of bath 
physicians, and not allow the attendants to apply the 
douches ad libittim. 

Long experience and careful observation have in- 
dicated the cases which are profitably treated at the 
thermal spas. Chronic rheumatism of the joints, as 
well as of the muscles, and gout, are the diseases 
which furnish the largest contingent to the army of 
patients who crowd these places every season, seeking 
and finding relief from their ailments. Gun-shot 
wounds, ulcers with unhealthy suppuration, stiffness 
of the joints after fractures or luxations, are also very 
much benefited. 

Exudations which often remain after inflammatory 
diseases, are brought to absorption by the indifferent 
waters. 

The diseases of the nervous system are also proper 
objects of treatment, but there is a great difference 
in the operation of the various springs. If great irri- 
tability of the nervous system is the cause of the 
disease, as is the case in hysterical affections, nervous 



250 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

headache, sleeplessness, spinal irritation, St. Vitus's 
dance, and in many forms of neuralgia, the cooler in- 
different waters of Schlangenbad, Johannisbad, &c, 
should be resorted to ; in all forms of paralysis, be 
they caused by affections of the brain or spine, the 
hotter springs of Teplitz, Gastein, &c, should be 
chosen. A large number of uterine affections are 
also treated with great success at some of these spas ; 
Schlangenbad has a special reputation with regard to 
these irregularities. 

Diseases of the skin, metallic poisoning, and general 
debility after acute diseases, are also cured by the 
indifferent waters. 

The following are the most popular of the in- 
different thermal springs. 

Schlangenbad is at present the best patronized 
of the cooler Wildbdder. Its waters have a tempera- 
ture of 82 — 92 , and are highly praised for their 
quieting and invigorating action on the nervous 
system. All kinds of nervous affections are treated, 
the spa being the greatest favourite with the ladies. 
The place has three bathing-houses with douches, &c. 
Fresh iron water is carried thither every day from 
Schwalbach and used by the patients ; whey, milk, 
grape, and herb-cures are also very popular. 

Johannisbad has an abundance of water of 86°, 
belonging to the class of the cooler thermal spas ; 
it much resembles Schlangenbad, and has a similar 
calming and invigorating effect ; the pure, bracing forest 
and mountain air is a great advantage of the place. 

Tabelbad has a water of 87°, the effect of which 
is similar to that of the above-named springs. 



INDIFFERENT THERMAL WATERS. 25 I 

VlLLACH has an abundance of clear thermal water 
of 84 , which supplies two large swimming baths, and 
quite a number of single baths and douches. 

Teplitz, the foremost of the Wildbader, has an 
abundance of water, the temperature of which ranges 
from 86° — 11 8°. A short time ago, the inhabitants 
of this old, celebrated spa were terrified by the sudden 
disappearance of the principal well, caused by an 
accident which befell the mines of the neighbouring 
city of Dux. But happily their anxiety was soon 
relieved by prompt action of the authorities, and 
the salutary springs again flow as copiously as 
ever. 

The waters of Teplitz take the lead among the hot 
thermal springs ; they have an exciting,, stimulating 
effect, and are employed with the greatest advantage 
in cases of rheumatism, gout, paralysis, &c. 

On account of the great throng of visitors, patients 
are obliged to commence bathing very early in the 
morning, and those who neglect to engage a bathing- 
room at the proper timej will find it difficult to be 
accommodated in the height of the season. A new 
bathing-house for the use of peat baths has lately 
been erected. 

Gastein resembles Teplitz in point of high tem- 
perature of the water, which varies from 96 — 11 8°. 
Its springs are exceedingly beneficial for the same 
affections which are cured at Teplitz, but owing to 
the high elevation and the fresh, invigorating Alpine 
air of Gastein, weak and irritable patients can endure 
the high temperature of the water better than they 
would at Teplitz, which has a warmer climate. Less 



252 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

irritable and stronger patients may resort to the 
latter spa. 

Ragatz-Pfaffers has the advantage over Gas- 
tein of easy access by railway. The temperature of 
the water is 94 — 99° Gout, rheumatism, and para- 
lysis are successfully treated. Whey and grape cures 
are also practised. 

WlLDBAD ranks next to Teplitz in regard to popu- 
larity and frequency. The water has a temperature 
of 93 — 98 ; two of the springs are used for drinking. 
The same diseases are treated there as at the other 
indifferent spas. The inevitable whey is also pre- 
pared and much patronized. 

Warmbrunn has four springs, with a temperature 
of 96 — 108 . Gouty and rheumatic patients derive 
great benefit from the use of these waters. 

NEUHAUS, TtJFFER and Romerbad have waters 
a temperature of 95 — 102 . These spas are visited 
by patients suffering from the same diseases as those 
who throng the other more celebrated Wildbdder. 
They are also very much recommended for hysterics 
and uterine complaints. 



PART IV. 

CLIMATOLOGICAL AND BALNEOLOGICAL 
NOTES. 



CHAPTER I. 

CLIMATIC HEALTH RESORTS, WITH SPECIAL REFER- 
ENCE TO PULMONARY CONSUMPTION. 

Change of air has at all times been considered one 
of the most important curative agents in chronic 
diseases. Patients suffering from rheumatic or ner- 
vous affections, from bronchial catarrhs, scrofula, and 
other ailments, have found, and will always find relief, 
or complete restoration to health, by changing the 
cold northern climate, which is so unfavourable for 
the cure of a great number of chronic affections, for 
the mild, warm air of southern regions. The obser- 
vation made by experienced practitioners, that many 
chronic diseases take a more favourable course during 
the warm season, has always induced them to send 
patients for the fall and winter to a southern country, 
where they may enjoy, even during those seasons, 



254 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

the advantages of a warm, equable climate, and 
constant outdoor exercise. 

Physicians have at last come to the conclusion, 
that fresh air alone is the real elixir of life for many 
complaints, especially pulmonary ones. The time 
has passed when practitioners believed in curing 
pulmonary consumption by large bottles of medicine, 
when the stomach of the unfortunate victim was 
made a depository for all kinds of drugs, or when 
desponding physicians, terrified by the first symptoms 
of that abominable evil which decimates the human 
race, left the patients to their mournful fate, con- 
sidering them hopeless from the beginning. Medical 
science having demonstrated that incipient phthisis 
can be cured, it is the duty of a conscientious medical 
adviser to discover, by a scrupulous examination, the 
first symptoms of the disease, and to take proper steps 
in order to arrest its further progress. 

Suspicion of pulmonary consumption should always 
be aroused when persons of consumptive parents, or 
those whose sanitary surroundings are bad, apply for 
medical advice. 

Bad air is the principal factor in the generation of 
disease, and natural science has already almost es- 
tablished the hypothesis, that many diseases are 
produced by germs floating in the atmosphere. Upon 
this hypothesis the great English surgeon, Mr. Lister, 
has based his new method of antiseptic treatment of 
wounds, destroying, by means of carbolic acid, the 
germs in the immediate vicinity of wounds — a method 
by which thousands of lives have been saved after 
operation. 






CLIMATIC HEALTH RESORTS. 255 

Some eminent scientists have expressed the opinion, 
that pulmonary consumption also generates by germs, 
and as city air is particularly contaminated by them, 
it is evident that a change of residence will prove 
highly beneficial to all those who live in large over- 
crowded cities. City air is poisoned by smoke, ob- 
noxious gases, and especially by dust ; the latter 
contains incalculable quantities of pernicious sub- 
stances, particularly such as arise from the refuse of 
houses and factories. Tyndall has demonstrated that 
the atmospheric dust of our rooms is almost exclu- 
sively composed of organic substances. It is obvious 
that such a contaminated air is injurious to any 
patient, but particularly to a consumptive one, and 
that change of air should be the first condition when 
a treatment is commenced. However, the air should 
not only be free from impurities, but also of a tempe- 
rature suitable to phthisical patients, who, in order to 
derive a real benefit from the change of residence, 
should be constantly in the open air. Experience 
has proved that persons who spend their time almost 
constantly outdoors and in a pure air, as for instance 
nomads, hunters, mountaineers, and others of similar 
habits, are rarely affected with consumption. It is 
reported that the Kirghises, who live a nomadic life 
on the Russian steppes, enjoy a perfect immunity 
from phthisis ; it is also a fact that persons born and 
reared on elevated regions, and who while living in 
cities are attacked by pulmonary complaints, soon 
recover on returning to the mountains. Although 
the immunity from consumption claimed for Alpine 
regions is not so unquestionably proved as the 



256 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

enthusiastic friends of elevated regions contend, we 
must nevertheless acknowledge that phthisis does 
not so frequently occur in high elevations as in the 
plains ; and that patients, if under proper treatment, 
greatly improve by a sojourn in mountain regions. 
This experience has led to the erection of sanitariums 
at elevated points. 

The advantages of a stay on Alpine heights result 
from various circumstances, as, insulation, tempera- 
ture, evaporation, freshness and purity of air, &c. 
The sunlight is more intense on high mountains, 
particularly in summer, and the atmosphere drier, than 
that of the lower plains. The temperature, on the 
contrary, decreases in proportion to the elevation, 
and the cool, fresh air is apparently the principal 
factor of the beneficial influence exerted by the 
Alpine climate on phthisical patients. Furthermore, 
by the change from the air of the plains to that of 
the mountains, the appetite increases, the nutrition 
and assimilation improve, and the fresh air, which 
is entirely free from the dust and emanations of the 
city, acts really regenerative upon the whole system. 
The scanty population of high regions is also a very 
favourable circumstance, for it cannot be denied that 
the crowding of a large number of human beings in 
a comparatively small, circumscribed place, is one of 
the principal causes in the production of disease, and 
thus our large cities are the breeding places of con- 
sumption and other allied maladies. 

But patients should not believe that a residence at 
one of the health-stations, be it on Alpine heights 
or in more southern regions, is all that is necessary 



CLIMATIC HEALTH RESORTS. 257 

to perfect a cure ; this alone is not sufficient. One 
of the first and indispensable requisites, wherever the 
patients sojourn, is a strict medical supervision, and 
next to that such complete arrangements of living 
as patients suffering from a severe disease require. 
The most salubrious climate, and the purest and most 
invigorating air, are of no avail, if the patient does 
not find a good home, with comfortable, well venti- 
lated rooms, and an attentive physician. It is 
erroneous to rely on the climate alone, to the neglect 
of all other curative means ; a consumptive patient 
must constantly be under medical supervision, as many 
changes and complications arise which require advice. 
In former times the laudable practice prevailed among 
wealthy patients travelling for the benefit of their 
health, of being accompanied by a physician, who 
constantly watched every change of their disease. 

Patients sojourning at a continental sanitarium or 
health-station have the great advantage of finding 
everywhere a large number of experienced physicians, 
who make the treatment of pulmonary diseases a 
specialty. 

Change of air being the most reliable remedy which 
could benefit consumptive persons, it should be resorted 
to in the very beginning of the malady. It is a great 
mistake to believe that favourable results can be 
obtained by keeping patients at home, and confined 
to their rooms during the unfavourable fall and winter 
season, deeming them sufficiently protected against 
the inclemency of the weather by proper heating 
and ventilation. The best heated and best ventilated 
house is no adequate substitute for the bright sun and 

S 



258 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

fresh, mild air of a southern resort. The very air of 
our houses is poisonous to the patient, contaminated 
as it is by the dust from carpets, beds, coals, 
streets, &c. ; and to confine him for any length of 
time to his room is deleterious, and a loss of valuable 
time. 

It cannot be denied that by neglect on the part of 
physicians of giving timely warning to persons pre- 
disposed to consumption, or by their disregard of the 
first symptoms of the disease, a large number of 
lives are sacrificed, which perhaps could have been 
.saved by an early change of locality. On the other 
hand, it is also notorious that year after year quite a 
number of consumptive patients are sent abroad by 
careless or unscrupulous practitioners, who, owing 
to the advanced stage of the disease, are scarcely able 
to endure the hardships of the voyage, and often die 
as soon as they reach the " promised land." Such 
criminal carelessness, though repeatedly denounced 
by medical authorities, is nevertheless of daily occur- 
rence. 

Such symptoms as excessive expectoration, hectic 
fever, short breathing, profuse night-sweats, diarrhoea, 
and general debility, forbid any change of locality as 
a useless, and generally even dangerous undertaking ; 
and intelligent patients of this kind should not urge 
the physician to send them to a climatic resort, nor 
should the latter allow them to leave their homes on 
a hopeless trip. Cavities in the lungs, if not too 
large, can heal, and are no absolute contra-indications 
to a change of air, if the other symptoms are not 
alarming, and the patient not so much reduced in 



CLIMATIC HEALTH RESORTS. 259 

strength as to be unfit for outdoor exercise, which is 
the principal and most important part of climatic 
treatment. 

The selection of a suitable place must be left to 
the physician, who alone is able to decide whether 
a southern station, or an Alpine region, or a sea-side 
resort, be a proper place for the patient. Climatology 
is a part of medical science, every physician being 
expected to possess a sufficient knowledge of it. 

We intend to give some general information on 
climatic resorts, for the benefit of those who, while 
travelling on the continent, become sick, and wish to 
remain for a time at a climatic station, or who may 
be sent abroad for the sole purpose of restoring their 
health by a change of air and a sojourn in a warm 
climate. 

The best time to leave the north for a southern 
resort is the month of October. Patients should not 
travel alone ; and, if circumstances permit, should be 
accompanied by a physician. Warm woollen clothing, 
particularly underwear, should be worn at all times, 
the changes of temperature being often very sudden 
in southern regions, and very intensely felt by sick 
persons ; even the change from the sunny to the 
shady side of the streets produces a chilly feeling. 
No patient should, therefore, leave the room without 
being provided with an overcoat or woollen wrap. A 
further rule is, not to hire a room unless it has a 
southern exposure, and is provided with a stove ; for, 
in Northern Italy, and even in Rome and Naples, fire 
is required on cool days. 

The room should be high and airy ; and narrow, 
s 2 



260 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

cool streets, where sunshine is a rarity, should be just 
as assiduously avoided as dusty and noisy ones. The 
floor of the room should be covered with a carpet. 
If the room is found to be cool or damp, it should be 
immediately changed. It is also advisable to hire a 
room and bedroom, as it is unwholesome to remain 
in the same room where one sleeps, when unfavourable 
weather forbids outdoor exercise. 

A great mistake, often made by patients, is that of 
hurrying with railway speed from the cool, cloudy 
north to the warm, sunny south. Such a rapid tran- 
sition from a low to a high temperature is often very 
injurious. They should make it a rule to travel slowly 
and comfortably, and to remain for a short time at an 
intermediate station which has a mild climate. As 
such stations, the numerous little villages at the Lake 
of Geneva may be recommended, or Meran and Bot- 
zen in the Tyrol. By residing there a few weeks, 
patients become accustomed to a warm climate, and 
may thus without apprehension travel further south- 
ward. On the return trip they should observe the 
same precautions. 

Many patients are unfavourably impressed by 
noticing that a large number of natives of southern 
resorts succumb to the very disease of which they 
expect to be cured. They should not be disheartened 
by this circumstance, but rather consider the differ- 
ence existing between themselves and the inhabitants, 
who remain at home all the year round, even during 
the unhealthy season, while they themselves may 
again seek change of air upon the approach of 
summer, or whenever the climate no longer agrees 
with them. Furthermore, visitors to southern resorts 



CLIMATIC HEALTH RESORTS. 26l 

generally have the means of providing for healthy, 
comfortable rooms, suitable clothing, &c. They en- 
joy all the repose and comfort which a life without 
labour and exertion affords, and derive the greatest 
possible benefit from the mild climate without being 
influenced by any local or social disadvantage. Thus 
they are infinitely better situated than the large 
majority of the natives, who, like those of other 
countries, succumb to the malady chiefly in con- 
sequence of hard labour, misery, deficient clothing, 
scanty food, and unwholesome, overcrowded, con- 
taminated dwellings. The populace of Nice and 
Palermo — places much frequented by consumptive 
patients from the north — furnish their quota to the 
immense number of victims who year after year are 
sacrificed to pulmonary consumption ; nevertheless 
there need be no hesitation in recommending these 
places as climatic stations to northern patients, who 
repair thither provided with the necessary means of 
procuring all possible comfort. 

The first rule for invalids is to regulate their mode 
of living in a reasonable manner ; they should always 
bear in mind that they have left their homes for the 
sole purpose of recovering their health, and not for 
sight-seeing or pleasure. Numerous invalids, desirous 
of making their stay in Italy as profitable as possible, 
indulge in sight-seeing. Picture galleries, churches, 
old ruins, are eagerly inspected, though the cold, damp 
air of these buildings is a deadly poison to every 
patient. All those who have travelled in Italy will 
coincide with the author, that more unwholesome 
places can scarcely be found than the celebrated 
churches and galleries of Rome, Naples, &c> Of 



262 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

course the temptation is very great, but invalids 
must withstand it, and shun these places, even when 
they feel better, and believe themselves fully restored 
to health. A single cold contracted at one of these 
unhealthy galleries, or exhaustion produced by 
running from one church to another, or to noted 
ruins, will surely cause a dangerous relapse. 

To travel restlessly from one city to another, in 
order to satisfy a vain curiosity, is equally injurious ; 
invalids should remember that they are not tourists, 
that rest and comfort are indispensable for their re- 
covery, and that every over-fatigue and exhaustion 
will do incalculable harm. 

The efficacy of a southern climate depends on 
several circumstances, which, combined, constitute 
what is called its salubrity. These are, a moderate 
warmth, equability of temperature, absence of cold and 
rough winds, purity and relative humidity of air, 
comfortable arrangements, and a large number of 
clear, bright days. 

Sick persons, especially consumptive ones, are very 
sensitive in regard to cold air. They feel cheerful 
and at ease on mild, warm summer days ; while a 
sudden change to cold, rough weather, often proves 
pernicious, their vitality being too much impaired to 
overcome the injurious effects of such a change. The 
steady, warm temperature of a southern resort is very 
apt to keep a patient in a comfortable condition. 

Warm air acts as a sedative, and is therefore very 
suitable to phthisical patients. But warm air does 
not mean hot air, and patients who believe the warmest 
place to be the best for their lungs, are greatly mis- 



CLIMATIC HEALTH RESORTS. 263 

taken ; for great heat is relaxing and enervating, 
and the hot summer of many southern stations is not 
at all adapted to patients. Even in our northern 
climate, excessive heat breeds disease and contagion ; 
and those whose means permit rush to cool country 
places in order to inhale fresh, pure air. 

Equability of temperature is another necessary re- 
quirement of a proper resort, though it does not mean 
an absence of all currents of air, which are necessary for 
purifying the atmosphere. But the variations should 
be moderate ; an imperative requisite, however, is an 
entire exemption from cold, chilly north winds. 

A moderate humidity of air is considered salubrious 
on account of its sedative effect, and consumptives 
generally feel very comfortable when the air is mode- 
rately most. 

A clear sky and a bright sunshine are by far the 
most important factors in the climatic treatment of 
pulmonary consumption, all the expected and desired 
benefit being dependent on the number of clear, 
sunny days, which enable the patient to inhale the 
warm out-door air ; therefore, that winter resort is the 
best which offers the largest number of fine, warm 
days, and the most frequent opportunity for out-door 
exercise. 

Invalids should leave the dwelling after breakfast, 
and remain out-doors as long as the sun shines. 
From 10 a.m. to 3*30 p.m. they shouldshun their hotels 
or boarding-houses, and enjoy the bright sunshine 
and pure air. They should take moderate exercise, 
which is wholesome, as it improves the appetite and 
strengthens the digestion ; but all fatigue must be 



264 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

strictly avoided, consumptives being obliged to econo- 
mize their strength. Those who are too feeble to 
promenade, may seat themselves on a warm, sunny 
spot, and inhale the mild air. 

As purity of air and immunity from noxious gases 
and putrefactive germs is chiefly prevalent in country 
places, it must be conceded that the numerous small 
towns of Italy, particularly those in the vicinity of 
the Mediterranean Sea, which are much patronized as 
health resorts, not only enjoy that purity in a high 
degree, but also possess the other requisites above 
mentioned. However, where there is much sunshine, 
there is often much shade ; and so it is here. Many of 
these places have the great disadvantage of being 
built upon lime soil, from which a great amount of 
lime dust constantly arises. Those who have made a 
tour along the coast of the beautiful Riviera di ponente 
will surely recollect the thick layer of dust which 
covered their faces and garments. However, great 
efforts are being made at the most popular places to 
remedy this evil. 

The accommodations at hotels and boarding-houses 
are generally satisfactory, those much patronized by 
English being the best arranged. English and Ger- 
man physicians practise at nearly every southern 
health-station, and patients should not omit to con- 
sult one of the resident physicians immediately on 
their arrival, and before making further arrangements. 

Among the large number of visitors who congregate 
at these places, patients will always meet some one 
with whom they can keep up a pleasant social inter- 
course ; this is a very important point, as it prevents 



CLIMATIC HEALTH RESORTS. 265 

them from brooding over their real or fancied com- 
plaints. They should also exert themselves to find 
out some suitable occupation, in order to spend the 
time usefully, and keep the mind free from all un- 
necessary distressing meditations. An unhappy state 
of mind is always an obstacle to recovery, and idle- 
ness leads to it. 

Invalids should abstain from all excitement in the 
shape of theatrical performances, concerts, evening 
parties, &c, in warm, ill-ventilated rooms, the air of 
which is poisoned by the exhalations of a large crowd 
of visitors ; they should likewise abstain from the 
luxury of opulent table d'hote dinners, and especially 
from the delicious cakes, tarts, and other indigestible 
dishes which usually form their chief attraction. 
Plain but substantial and well-prepared food is best 
suited for invalids. Those who have not the moral 
strength to adhere to the rules of a sound dietetic 
regimen and to renounce all excesses of living, should 
rather remain at home, and save themselves the 
expense and trouble of a long voyage. 

All writers on climatology warn invalids from re- 
turning prematurely to the north ; but their advice is 
rarely heeded. Most of the southern resorts already 
become very warm at the end of April ; and patients, 
who generally long for their relatives and friends, 
cannot be convinced that their homes are still cold 
and uncomfortable, and expose themselves too soon 
to the inclemency of the northern climate. Having 
by their sojourn in the south become more susceptible 
to the change of temperature, they are in the greatest 
danger of taking cold, thereby losing all the benefit 



266 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

of their trip to the south. They should not leave the 
southern resorts before the end of May ; a sojourn of 
a few weeks at one of the intermediate stations on the 
Lake of Geneva, or in the Tyrol, will prove of great 
advantage. 

Invalids who have considerably improved by the 
change of climate, are generally easily deluded by the 
apparent subsidence of most of the unfavourable 
symptoms, and become less cautious ; they should 
remember that consumption is a perfidious disease, 
and is often only slumbering, when they, under the 
impression that they are cured, neglect all necessary 
precautions, thereby running the risk of a speedy and 
fatal relapse. 

In order to obtain a permanent cure, which can 
only be hoped for in the earliest stages of the disease, 
it is absolutely necessary to pass several seasons in a 
warm climate. If the disease is so far advanced that 
only a prolongation of life can be aimed at, a per- 
manent residence in the south is the only means of 
procuring the desired result. 

In the foregoing pages we have spoken of the 
southern health-stations with regard to pulmonary 
consumption. But there are other complaints, which 
are equally as much benefited by the change of 
climate. Of these the following may be mentioned : 
rheumatism, gout, all chronic affections of the throat 
and bronchial tubes, particularly obstinate catarrhs, 
which are often the forerunners of phthisis. For pro- 
tracted whooping-cough a change of climate is 
eminently profitable, also for rickety and scrofulous 
children, who need constant out-door exercise. 



CLIMATIC HEALTH RESORTS. 267 

Persons affected with neuralgia, or those slowly con- 
valescing from exhausting diseases, also derive great 
benefit from a sojourn in a southern climate. Hypo- 
chondriacs, and all others who suffer from nervous 
depression caused by excessive mental labour or 
trouble, will undoubtedly be greatly benefited by a 
trip to the south. This is also highly recommended 
for old, decrepid persons, who, more than other indi- 
viduals, need a warm, mild air, in order to keep up 
their vitality ; a protracted sojourn in the sunny south, 
at a resort which is provided with all necessary 
comfort, will aid in prolonging their lives. 

We shall now briefly enumerate the most noted 
southern winter stations, which are recommended on 
account of the salubrity of climate, complete arrange- 
ments, &c. 

Madeira, one of the Canary Islands, is one of the 
most favoured resorts, and especially patronized by the 
English. It has no winter, and a temperate summer. 
Patients who during the summer feel too warm at 
Funchal, the principal place of Madeira, need not 
leave the island, but may repair to other places of 
higher elevation, as Santa Cruz, Camacho, &c. Madeira 
possesses all the requirements of a first-class climatic 
station — a warm, equable climate in winter and 
summer, mild sea-air, comfortable arrangements, and 
experienced physicians of the principal nationalities, 
namely, English, French, and German. All writers 
on climatic resorts are enthusiastic in the praise of the 
climate, and unanimously recommend this island for 
consumptives, as superior to all other southern stations. 
The special advantages are, good boarding-houses, 



268 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

with clean, comfortable rooms, and reasonable prices ; 
excellent water in great abundance, superior quality 
of meat, fish, vegetables, and fruit, especially straw- 
berries and grapes, absence of dust, good sea baths, 
attentive inhabitants, and plenty of opportunity for 
entertainment and suitable social intercourse. 

To the English, who for a long time have exten- 
sively patronized the island, patients are indebted 
for the great comforts which they obtain at Madeira. 

Cairo, in Egypt. The climate is mild and equable ; 
there is a temperate season, lasting from October until 
March, during which time the temperature is similar 
to that of a summer in a northern region ; the hot 
season, from March to September, is unfavourable to 
patients. Cloudy days are very rare, the sky being 
almost constantly clear and bright ; the sun shines 
brilliantly, and the air is mild and balmy. No other 
climate admits of so much out-door exercise during 
the winter months. Among the natives, and the 
Europeans who permanently reside in Egypt, con- 
sumption is not a frequent disease, and consumptive 
patients from abroad generally feel better during their 
stay in Egypt. Cairo has comfortable hotels, parks, 
&c. There is also in the vicinity of Cairo a sanitarium 
for consumptives, established by Dr. Reil. 

Palermo, in Sicily, has a mild, equable, and moist 
climate, which is very well adapted to excitable 
patients. The mean winter temperature is 50 , with 
very few variations. Palermo has the mildest and 
most equable climate in Italy, and is very well suited 
to consumptive patients, from November until May 
being the most favourable time. There are numerous 



CLIMATIC HEALTH RESORTS. 269 

promenades and gardens, and the place is free from 
dust, but the want of comfortable dwellings is much 
complained of. 

Catania, a fine city on the eastern coast of Italy, 
has a mean winter temperature of 50 , and a constantly 
moist air. It is becoming quite a popular resort, and 
many prefer it to Palermo. The new Hotel Acireale, 
near Catania, has been erected for the special accom- 
modation of invalids, 

AjACCiO, on the island of Corsica, has a mean 
temperature of 54°, a mild,, equable, and moist climate, 
and is well protected by high mountains against cold 
winds. It has a great number of fine, clear, sunshiny 
days, and, on account of its maritime situation, a mild 
winter and temperate summer. It is situated at the 
northernly end of a beautiful bay, and is surrounded 
by a long mountain range of 6000 to 9000 feet eleva- 
tion ; from the north and east it is completely sheltered; 
the warm southernly winds alone have free access. 

The situation of Ajaccio is enthusiastically described 
by many writers, the bay being praised as one of the 
most magnificent on the globe, rivalling that of Naples. 
There is no dust, but an extremely pure air, excellent 
water and wine ; there is little rain. Many pro- 
menades in the city and its environs afford pleasant 
opportunity for active exercise. Tropical plants, 
palm-trees, bananas, pine-apples, sugar-cane, &c, 
delight the eye of the stranger, and make a favourable, 
cheerful impression on his mind. The inhabitants 
are reported as civil and very obliging. Of late 
several new hotels have been erected, with comfortable 
arrangements and reasonable prices. On the whole 



2/0 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

the place seems eminently fitted for a winter resort 
for persons suffering from bronchial catarrh, asthma, 
and consumption. 

On the Continent, the western part of the Gulf of 
Genoa, called Riviera di ponente, was for a long time 
considered the most favourable resort for consump- 
tives. It is indeed one of the most blessed regions 
on earth, a little paradise, and the great reputation 
which it enjoys, is well deserved. Those of our 
readers who have visited that region, will surely recall 
with pleasure the lovely scenery along the whole 
shore, the forests of pines alternating with those of 
olive-trees, the well-cultivated gardens with an abun- 
dance of lemons, oranges, figs, and palms, the flourish- 
ing cities, the romantic rocks and hills crowned with 
the ruins of old castles and chapels. 

The most popular stations on or near the Riviera 
are Hyeres, Cannes, Nice, Mentone, San Remo. 

HYERES, about one hour's drive from the sea-shore, 
has been highly praised by some authors ; others, 
however, entirely deny its salubrity, as it is too much 
exposed to the violent mistral, which finds access 
from the north-west, and is accompanied by immense 
clouds of dust. There are fine promenades, a theatre, 
casino, and comfortable hotels. 

CANNES, the most westernly place of the Riviera, 
has a beautiful situation on the bay of Napoule. 
Numerous comfortable villas and boarding-houses 
afford good accommodation to patients, especially 
those in the adjoining village Le Cannet, which is well- 
sheltered against the mistral, and free from dust. 
The climate is mild and equable, the mean tern- 



CLIMATIC HEALTH RESORTS. 2J\ 

perature 48 . Cannes is the place where the immense 
quantities of odoriferous flowers are cultivated which 
are used for the preparation of odoriferous extracts 
and essences. There are many sunny, few cloudy or 
rainy days, and no foggy ones ; the air is pure and 
balsamic. This city, which is much patronized by 
the English, has a casino, a theatre, gardens, reading- 
rooms, book-shops, &c. : prices are high. 

Nice (Nizzd), the largest and most popular of 
all European winter resorts, combines a beautiful 
situation, superb environs, and a mild climate, with the 
comforts of a large city. It has two theatres, concert, 
and reading-rooms, fine parks, &c. The grand pro- 
menade along the sea-shore, called the Promenade 
des Anglais, enjoys a wide reputation, though it is 
dusty, and without shade. By the river Paillon the 
city is divided into an eastern and western part, the 
latter being the head-quarters of the foreigners, and 
provided with the best hotels and boarding-houses. 
Numerous villas adorn the surrounding hills. The 
place is very well sheltered from the north and east, 
but from the west the mistral invades it. The climate 
is warm and moderately dry. The mean winter 
temperature is 46 — 48 , with many variations and 
rapid changes ; the mean fall temperature is 5 6°. 
There are about one hundred perfectly clear and 
bright days during the winter, and only fifty-three 
rainy days during the whole year. The difference of 
the temperature between the sunny and the shady 
side of the streets is very great, often ranging from 
5 2° — y6° ; the evenings particularly are usually very 
cool. The fall abounds in rain, but the winter is 



272 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

mostly fine and mild, and the vegetation all around 
the city is luxuriant. 

The climate of Nice is considered stimulating and 
tonic ; the air is pure, but the dust often very annoying. 
Patients can enjoy out-door exercise nearly every day 
during the winter. Nevertheless the place is not very 
suitable for consumptives, on account of the sudden 
changes of temperature, the inferior quality of the 
water, the violent cool north-west winds, and the 
noisy life of a large city. For these reasons many 
authorities do not favour it as a winter resort for 
persons affected with lung diseases, while it is highly 
recommended for feeble persons, especially those con- 
valescing from severe diseases, for rheumatic and 
gouty patients, and for the cure of bronchial catarrhs. 

Patients should consult one of the resident phy- 
sicians before taking apartments, as there is a marked 
difference of the climate in the diverse quarters of the 
city ; they should not go out-doors early in the morn- 
ing or late in the evening, and never without being 
provided with an overcoat or wrap. Extensive 
pleasure trips and a luxurious table are injurious. 

MENTONE has in the short time of ten years be- 
come one of the most frequented winter resorts. It 
is a pretty little city, with 5000 inhabitants, situated 
on a charming bay, and is very well protected by 
high mountains against the cool north-west and 
east winds, only warm southern winds having free 
access. Near the shore, as well as on the slope of the 
hills away from the sea, are many good hotels, 
boarding-houses, and fine, comfortable villas, all 
affording good accommodation for invalids. The place 



CLIMATIC HEALTH RESORTS. 273 

is crowded during the winter, especially by English 
and French. 

The climate is very mild, very equable, and mode- 
rately dry. Sudden changes from cold to warm are 
of very rare occurrence, the sky being constantly clear 
and bright ; during the whole winter patients can 
take out-door exercise. Dews are frequent and 
dangerous, and the nights often cold ; fogs never 
occur. The mean temperature is 48 — 50 , and about 
214 days of the year are sunny and clear. A sojourn 
at Mentone will prove profitable in cases of con- 
sumption, chronic bronchial and laryngeal catarrh, 
rheumatism, and gout ; it is also highly recommended 
for scrofulous children. Excitable persons, or those 
predisposed to hemorrhage of the lungs, are not 
advised to reside there. 

A considerable number of experienced English, 
German, and French physicians practise there during 
the winter. 

San Remo very much resembles Mentone ; it is 
well sheltered from the north, and tolerably well from 
the east and west ; the climate is warm, equable, and 
mild, the vegetation luxuriant, and the water good. 
Mean winter temperature, 48 — 50 ; only thirty-five 
days during the whole season are rainy. The in- 
habitants are reported to be honest and well educated. 
There are several good hotels and boarding-houses, 
cafes, a casino, &c. Of late years the place has 
grown very much in importance, and has become 
quite a popular rival of Mentone and the other Italian 
resorts. 

Rome, Naples, and Venice have been at all times 

T 



274 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

more or less patronized by invalids from northern 
regions. 

Rome, the eternal city, the Mecca of all those who 
love science and art, and are desirous of seeing some 
relics of the grandeur of that ancient mistress of the 
world— is no suitable place for consumptive patients, 
as rapid changes of temperature, rough winds, damp 
air, cool nights, and narrow, cold streets, are decidedly 
injurious to any invalid. From the earliest times 
malaria has made Rome notorious, and every season 
some of the foreign residents are carried off by that 
unrelenting enemy. Even healthy persons, if not 
endowed with a good, strong constitution, cannot for 
any length of time endure the frequent variations of 
temperature, the cold and damp air of the numerous 
churches and galleries which all strangers are in the 
habit of visiting, and the uncomfortable, cold rooms 
of hotels and private houses, the arrangements for 
heating being very imperfect in Rome as well as in 
most of the southern cities. 

Naples has also a very variable climate, sudden 
changes being of frequent occurrence during the 
winter season. This city is very noisy, and not suit- 
able for persons requiring a quiet resort. 

VENICE has been highly praised by many climato- 
logists, while others condemn it as unfit for a climatic 
resort. It is exposed to the violent, cold, north-east 
wind, called the Bora, and to the hot, oppressive, 
south-east wind {Scirocco). The water is bad, and 
the foul odours emanating from the canals and 
lagunes are neither pleasant nor salubrious. Though 
the gondola-trips on the Canal grande are delightful 



CLIMATIC HEALTH RESORTS. 275 

and highly interesting, they are, nevertheless, no com- 
pensation for fine promenades, the most essential 
requisite of a climatic resort, the want of which is a 
very great drawback to Venice. 

Venice seems to me to be no suitable resort as a 
permanent residence for consumptives, but it is be- 
coming very popular as an intermediate fall and 
spring station for patients going to or returning from 
southern resorts. 

Meran, in the Tyrol, a little city with 4000 
inhabitants, and 1000 feet above the sea, is perhaps 
the most popular of these intermediate stations. Its 
situation in the charming valley of the Etsch is mag- 
nificent ; fine promenades, beautiful environs, a new, 
handsome Kurhaus with cafe and restaurant, good 
hotels and villas, with comfortable arrangements, 
render a temporary residence at Meran very pleasant. 
The place is sheltered from the north and east by 
high mountains of 5 OOO to 7000 feet elevation. Meran 
has a vast reputation as a climatic resort, and is 
crowded during the fall, when the grape-cure begins. 
The large number of houses which seem to have been 
recently erected, prove the growing prosperity and 
popularity of this little city. 

Notwithstanding a large number of fine, clear days, 
the winter is not very favourable to consumptive 
patients, as the insulation is greatly impaired by the 
high, snow-covered mountains. The warm rays of 
the sun reach the valley only from eleven to three 
o'clock, and at times it is very cold indeed. The 
mean temperature of January is only 31 , of February 
40 , of March 56 . 

T 2 



2j6 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

A sojourn at Meran is highly beneficial for scrofu- 
lous children, decrepid old persons, over-worked busi- 
ness men, and delicate, anaemic ladies. 

Botzen, and the neighbouring village GRIES, about 
three hours distant from Meran, are also recommended 
as climatic stations. 

Arco, a little city with 2700 inhabitants, beauti- 
fully situated in the southern Tyrol, near the Lago di 
Garda, has in December and January a higher tempe- 
rature than Meran. It is eminently fit for an inter- 
mediate station, and the number of visitors is steadily 
increasing. An elegant, spacious Kurhaus, with a 
large concert salon, billiard, reading, and sitting- 
rooms, and sixty high and airy rooms for the accom- 
modation of patients, was erected in 1878. A large 
number of villas, surrounded by fine gardens, afford 
pleasant accommodations to visitors. 

MONTREUX, VEVEY, Clarens, and other places 
on the eastern shore of the Lake of Geneva, are also 
suitable stations for invalids returning from the 
south. 

The cure of consumption by a prolonged residence 
in elevated regions, aided by proper medical treatment, 
has, for almost two decades, attracted the attention of 
physicians and the public in general. The pioneer of 
this movement was Dr. Brehmer of Gorbersdorf (Si- 
lesia), who opened the first sanitarium on an elevated 
point, and introduced the cold water cure into the 
treatment of consumption. His establishment and 
method of treatment at present enjoy a great reputa- 
tion, and the opposition to his method on the part 
of the regular practitioners, is gradually subsiding. 



CLIMATIC HEALTH RESORTS. 277 

Though the establishment is a little out of the regular 
route of tourists, physicians should not on this ac- 
count permit themselves to be deterred from visiting 
it and examining the arrangements ; they will be 
highly satisfied, and no ' matter what their views of 
the method of treatment may be, they will surely coin- 
cide with the author in the opinion that the establish- 
ment fully deserves the high reputation which it has 
already obtained. 

There was once a general prejudice among the 
members of the profession against the climatic treat- 
ment of phthisis on elevated regions, especially when 
continued during the winter, and a far greater one 
still against the treatment by cold water. It would 
annoy the reader to enter into a long discourse on the 
rationale of this method, but the fact cannot be 
denied, that beneficial results have been obtained at 
the sanitariums of Gorbersdorf, Davos, &c, though it 
will take a long time yet before this question can be 
satisfactorily settled. 

To send patients to high altitudes for a stay during 
the summer, has been a favourite remedy from the 
earliest times ; and many places of the kind in all 
parts of the globe are crowded with consumptives. 
However, it was quite a new feature to furnish a sani- 
tarium with all the necessary comfort, and put it under 
the management of experienced physicians, who de- 
vote their time to the special treatment of consump- 
tion, and to keep patients in a place so provided during 
the winter months. A wilderness, however beautiful 
and healthful the climate may be, and however high 
it may be situated above the sea, is no suitable abode 



278 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

for patients who require perfect arrangements in 
regard to lodgings and food, and constant medical 
supervision. Sanitariums in elevated regions, which 
answer all requirements, for the present exist only on 
the continent, and are becoming very popular. Gor- 
bersdorf and Davos are patronized by patients of all 
nationalities, who remain there during the winter. 

The principal requirements for a sanitarium are, a 
high situation, sufficient protection against rough 
winds, and fresh, pure air. Sanitariums on high 
regions have a great advantage over their competitors, 
the southern resorts, in point of fresh, invigorating 
air, absence of dust and germs, perfect quiet, &c. 

The sanitarium at Gorbersdorf is a very extensive 
and complete establishment, and fully deserves our 
commendation. Few persons know how to appreciate 
the skill, knowledge, and administrative capacity 
which are required in order to establish and arrange 
a large complete medical institution, and the difficul- 
ties of managing it in so perfect a manner as is done 
at Gorbersdorf. 

The sanitarium is situated in a small valley of the 
Silesian mountains, 1900 feet above the sea, pretty 
well sheltered by mountains of 3000 feet elevation. 
The air is fresh and bracing, and very rich in ozone, 
the water is pure and refreshing. There is a spacious 
Kurhaus — a grand building in purely Gothic style, 500 
feet long, containing large dining-rooms, a winter 
garden, and a large concert-hall in Gothic style. 
There are also no high, airy, comfortable rooms for 
the accommodation of patients, neatly furnished, and 
exceedingly clean ; each room is provided with an 



CLIMATIC HEALTH RESORTS. 279 

hygrometer to control the humidity of the air, and 
with excellent ventilation. The whole building is 
heated by hot water. Three villa houses are close by 
ttie Kurhaus, with accommodations for fifty-three 
patients. There are also eighteen houses in the 
village, with 250 rooms, where patients are received. 
A separate building for the application of cold water 
is situated in the pine forest, a few hundred feet 
distant from the Kurhaus. Opposite to the latter is 
the great dairy-farm, with a large number of excellent 
cows and goats, which furnish the immense quantities 
of milk required for the patients. 

In front of the Kurhaus a fine garden is laid out, 
stocked with domestic and exotic plants ; and ad- 
joining it are the promenades, the most important 
part of this and every other properly-arranged sani- 
tarium. The arrangement of these promenades bears 
testimony to the intelligence and skill of the leading 
spirit of the establishment, everything being carefully 
adjusted with respect to the wants of the invalids ; 
covering an area of about eighty acres, the shady 
walks gradually and smoothly lead up to the highest 
elevation. On well-selected spots more than 300 
benches are placed, affording shady resting-places to 
the invalids when ascending the hills. All these walks 
are through pine-woods, which fill the air with a bal- 
samic odour. A large number of hammocks are sus- 
pended among the pine-trees, affording on warm days 
a pleasant opportunity for an afternoon siesta. In 
short, everything is done for the purpose of enticing 
the patients to spend their whole time in the open air. 
The gist of the whole treatment consists in the enjoy- 



280 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

ment of proper food and pure air, under the strictest 
surveillance of physicians, everything being controlled 
by Dr. Brehmer and three assistants. Every patient 
is carefully examined and observed, and a diary is 
kept of each respective case. The application of the 
cold water takes place under their personal super- 
vision, and is entirely omitted as soon as contra- 
indications arise ; as, for instance, a want of reactive 
power, hemorrhage, &c. Dr. Brehmer is by no means 
a fanatic in his advocacy of the cold-water treatment, 
but applies it with discretion, and at all events 
deserves credit for the courage and energy he ex- 
hibited by introducing into the treatment of consump- 
. tion such a heroic method, which is in absolute contrast 
to the doctrines of the old medical school. 

Eating, drinking, and promenading being almost 
the only business of the day, special attention is paid 
to the bill of fare, which presents a fine array of sub- 
stantial, nourishing dishes, of the best quality. Five 
times a day the bell calls the boarders to the dining- 
rooms : for breakfast (seven to eight), lunch (ten to 
eleven), dinner (half-past twelve), coffee (four to five), 
supper (six to seven). Excellent meat and bread, 
large quantities of pure milk, good Hungarian wine, 
and fresh vegetables, are the medicines applied by 
the physicians of the place. At ten o'clock p.m. all 
patients retire. 

By the constant supervision on the part of the 
physicians, patients are kept back from all those ex- 
cesses in which consumptive patients so often indulge, 
thereby inflicting upon themselves irreparable harm. 

Patients should never expect to be cured by a short 



CLIMATIC HEALTH RESORTS. 28 1 

stay at a sanitarium ; it has already been stated that 
a diseased lung can be cured, if proper remedies are 
applied in the early stages of the affliction ; but it 
requires months, and even years, to perfect a cure, and 
a too hasty departure often frustrates the good results 
already obtained. Patience and perseverance should 
be the parole of all invalids, and especially of all 
consumptives. 

If the author should perhaps have devoted too much 
time and space to the description of that model sani- 
tarium at Gorbersdorf, he hopes to be excused by the 
importance of the subject, which is a vital question 
for thousands of unfortunate patients, who long for 
help, no matter what may be the expense or trouble. 

At Gorbersdorf another sanitarium has recently 
been opened, which, however, bears no comparison 
with that of Dr. Brehmer. 

Davos, in Switzerland, also enjoys an immense 
reputation for the cure of consumptives. It has an 
elevation of 5000 feet above the sea, and the treat- 
ment is shaped after Dr. Brehmer's method. The 
place is well sheltered from the north ; even in the 
winter the heat at noon is often intense, but the nights 
are almost too cool. However, it is a first-class winter 
resort, of great repute, and extensively patronized, 
has comfortable boarding-houses with excellent table, 
and good arrangements for cold-water treatment. 
There are also experienced physicians, who make 
the treatment of consumption their special study. 
Feverish patients, and those possessing little power 
of reaction, are not advised to go to Davos. The 
time when the snow melts, viz., from March to 



282 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

June, is considered particularly unfavourable at this 
place. 

AUSSEE, which has already been mentioned as an 
excellent brine bath, has attained a reputation as a 
climatic health resort through the sanitarium of Dr. 
Schreiber. The establishment is pretty well arranged, 
but changed hands several years ago ; and as it is no 
more carried on under the special supervision of a 
physician, it can hardly be considered a sanitarium. 
On my last visit to the place, in August, 1879, I was 
reliably informed that Dr. Schreiber within a short 
time intends to establish another sanitarium, on a 
grand scale, on one of the highest spots in Aussee, 
which affords a beautiful view of the charming village 
and the romantic lake. Aussee is surely a magnificent 
place for a sanitarium, having an elevation of 2000 
feet, and a fresh, bracing Alpine air. 

Beside these regular sanitariums, there are hundreds 
of places in all the mountain regions of Central 
Europe which are praised as resorts for invalids. 
Being mostly intended for the reception of summer 
visitors, they are called summer stations, or Sommer- 
friscken, the latter expression being very popular 
among the Germans. To persons whose nervous 
system is deranged in consequence of excessive mental 
labour, or to convalescents after acute diseases, or to 
others exhausted by chronic affections, a stay of 
several months at one of these resorts will be ex- 
ceedingly beneficial. The practice of visiting such 
places is becoming more popular every year, and 
many may consider it a peculiar habit of modern 
times. But at all ages summer resorts have existed 



CLIMATIC HEALTH RESORTS. 283 

and been patronized, and those of the Romans were 
notorious for elegance, luxury, and extravagance. 
But there is a great difference between ancient and 
modern times, inasmuch as nowadays, through the 
facilities afforded by railways and steamboats, persons 
of moderate means are enabled to enjoy the benefit 
of a summer resort, whilst previous to the general 
introduction of steam, only the upper ten had this 
privilege. This laudable and beneficial luxury is 
at present indulged in to such an extent, that in the 
spring of every year a regular haegira takes place from 
the overcrowded cities to the elevated regions. 

It would be impossible to enumerate all the summer 
resorts, as there is hardly a single spot in the moun- 
tains which is not advertised as a beautiful, very 
healthy Sommerfrische, with unsurpassed accommo- 
dations. To English and Americans travelling near 
the Rhine, the little mountain villages of the Black 
Forest, the Bavarian Alps, and Switzerland, may be 
recommended ; to those residing at Dresden and 
Berlin, those of the Saxon, Swiss, and the Riesenge- 
birge. In Austria — the Tyrol, Styria, and Salzburg have 
an abundance of pleasant and healthy summer sta- 
tions. But it seems proper to repeat, that consumptive 
patients should resort to a regular sanitarium, where 
they are sure of receiving good medical attendance. 

A few words remain to be said of the sea-side 
resorts on the Continent. Many patients, after having 
finished a course of treatment at Karlsbad, Marienbad, 
or some other spa, are advised to take sea baths, in 
order to regain their bodily strength ; others are sent 



284 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

thither for the only purpose of inhaling the fresh, 
bracing sea-air. Sea baths are an excellent remedy 
for persons with a tender skin, who are inclined to 
catch cold at every change of temperature. They 
are also of great benefit in chronic-bronchial catarrhs, 
scrofula, neuralgia of the head (hemicrania), general 
debility, &c. There are several excellent sea baths 
on the coast of the German Ocean (North Sea). We 
mention the following as the most popular : — - 

Ostend, on the Belgian coast, the most celebrated 
sea bath on the Continent, patronized by visitors from 
all parts of Europe, but too noisy for those who are 
fond of quiet living. All the arrangements are first 
class, and the prices high. The place has an excellent 
beach, and strong waves. 

SCHEVENINGEN, on the Dutch coast, near the 
Hague, is a fashionable bath, with perfect arrange- 
ments, and high prices. 

There are four other sea baths, on four islands near 
the German coast, which are extensively patronized 
by the better class of Germans. These islands are : 
Sylt, Norderney, Borkum, Heligoland (the last-named 
belonging to the British Government) ; they are not 
frequented by English or Americans, though they 
ought to be patronized on account of the good sea 
bathing, complete arrangements, and moderate prices. 

Sylt, near the Sleswig coast, has superb waves 
and a very strong, bracing air ; it is, perhaps, the 
most forcible sea bath on the German Ocean. But 
the accommodations are not so perfect as they should 
be, the inhabitants being somewhat phlegmatic, and 
slow to improve. 



CLIMATIC HEALTH RESORTS. 285 

NORDERNEY has very good arrangements, an ex- 
cellent beach, and good waves. Bath life is very 
pleasant and everything is done for the comfort of 
the visitors. The place is crowded in the height of 
the season. 

BORKUM, west of Norderney, is also becoming 
quite popular, great efforts being made to satisfy the 
visitors. 

Heligoland is the most fashionable of these four 
places. It has comfortable arrangements, a bracing 
sea-air, and excellent surf-bathing. The place where 
the patients bathe is situated on a dune, formerly 
connected with the island, but now separated from 
it, and bathers are obliged to cross in a boat, which 
is somewhat inconvenient. 



286 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 



CHAPTER II. 

MISCELLANEOUS CURES. 

BESIDES the numerous mineral springs and health 
resorts, the armamentory of the Continental practi- 
tioners is stocked with a large number of other 
weapons, which they skilfully handle in the combat 
with disease. Peat, mud, sand, tan, malt, pine-needle, 
herb baths ; grapes, milk, whey, koumis, herb-bitters, 
cold water in every shape, and many other substances 
of the organic and inorganic kingdoms, are summoned 
in order to combat, and if possible to vanquish, the 
common enemy. 

Foreigners visiting the German watering places 
will notice with surprise an immense number of 
advertisements, either in newspapers or in the shape 
of pamphlets, or placards, &c, extolling one or the 
other of these remedies. The following brief notes 
will give all information that is required in order to 
appreciate the real virtue of those which at present 
still enjoy a great popularity. In these things, as in 
so many others, fashion reigns with despotic power, 
and remedies which a short time ago seemed to have 
the firmest hold in the estimation of the profession, 
are now deposed without mercy. 



MISCELLANEOUS CURES. 287 

Peat and mud baths are at present perhaps the 
most favoured remedies on the Continent, there being 
scarcely any watering place, at least of those enume- 
rated in this treatise, without these appliances. But 
they are no specialty of modern medical science, as, 
according to the reports of Pliny, Galen, and others, 
even the old Romans were in the habit of using them. 
There is no essential difference in regard to the phy- 
siological action and therapeutical application between 
peat and mud baths, though their chemical composi- 
tion is not identical. 

Peat baths are made of the peat or moor earth, of 
which immense deposits are found in all parts of the 
globe. The peat having been powdered and sifted, 
is mixed with mineral water or plain hot water, until 
it has attained the consistency of a well-prepared 
poultice. Such a preparation presents the appear- 
ance of a thick, black, pappy substance, not very 
alluring indeed, as it resembles far more a heap of 
that ugly mud which street sweepers often collect in 
the streets than an important medical appliance, and 
to jump into that unsightly mass seems to require a 
good deal of courage. A patient who takes a peat 
bath at first feels a little excited, and oppressed by 
the heavy weight of the peat ; but this feeling rapidly 
passes off, and soon he is perfectly at ease. The only 
trouble he has is in obtaining a firm hold ; for as the 
pappy liquid has a higher specific gravity than the 
human body, he is lifted, and experiences some diffi- 
culty in lying or sitting in the bath. 

Peat is produced by decomposition of organic sub- 
stances, and consists of humic acid, resin, silicic acid, 



288 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

a large quantity of vegetable remains, sulphate of 
iron, magnesia, &c. ; it also contains sulphuretted 
hydrogen, carbonic acid, and nitrogen. The tempera- 
ture of the peat bath is higher than that of the mineral 
water bath, namely ioo° and even more. 

Peat baths produce irritation of the skin, which is 
manifested by redness and increased perspiration, 
and sometimes even by eruptions ; they have a calm- 
ing effect on the cutaneous nerves, and are strong 
resolvents for all kinds of exudations. They are 
very efficacious in rheumatic and gouty exudations, 
and thickening of the joints ; paralytic and hysterical 
patients are also much benefited ; in neuralgia, espe- 
cially sciatica, great success is claimed for the treat- 
ment by peat baths. 

The duration of a peat bath varies from fifteen to 
forty-five minutes. There is always in the bathing- 
room another bathing tub, filled with warm water, 
which the patient uses after leaving the peat bath ; 
but he should not remain therein any longer than 
necessary for cleaning the skin. 

Mud baths are employed for the same diseases as 
peat baths, and their efficacy in chronic diseases of 
the skin is particularly praised. Mud is a deposit 
from mineral waters, especially from sulphur springs, 
and contains the chemical constituents and some 
organic substances which are usually found in these. 

Sand baths. In tropical climates the sand as heated 
by the sun is used for arenation. On the Continent, 
sand is artificially heated on sheets of iron. In order 
to prepare the sand bath, the bottom of the bathing- 
tub is covered with the hot sand to the height of five 



MISCELLANEOUS CURES. 289 

inches ; the patient lies down on it, and is then 
covered with five inches of sand, which has a tempera- 
ture of 1 1 6° — 122 . Having remained therein from 
forty-five to sixty minutes, he takes a warm water 
bath, for the purpose of washing off the sand, of which 
a considerable quantity usually adheres to the skin. 
The sand bath produces a profuse perspiration, 
whereby one, and even two pounds of fluid, are 
excreted. 

Sand baths were extensively applied by the Roman 
and Arabian physicians ; they are of great advantage 
in chronic rheumatism, and in exudations in and 
around the joints resulting therefrom ; they are also 
recommended in paralysis caused by suppressed per- 
spiration. 

Pine-needle baths are likewise very extensively used 
in Germany. A fluid extract, of greenish colour and 
aromatic odour, is prepared from the fresh leaves of 
pine trees ; about two ounces of it, mixed with the 
necessary quantity of warm water, are sufficient for 
a bath. A decoction, freshly prepared every day, is 
also used, six, ten, or fifteen quarts being added to 
a bath. The temperature varies from 92 — 108 , 
according to the nature of the disease and the con- 
stitution of the patient. These baths, which fill the 
whole bathing-room with an aromatic and very agree- 
able odour, strongly stimulate the skin and the 
cutaneous nerves. Chronic rheumatism of the muscles 
and joints is particularly benefited by them ; on 
account of their invigorating action, they are very 
suitable for such feeble, enervated patients as are 
unable to undergo an energetic treatment by warm 

U 



29O WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

mineral springs. They are also recommended in 
neuralgic affections. 

Herb baths were for centuries in great favour with 
the physicians, but for the present they are out of 
fashion. Decoctions of a large number of aromatic 
plants, as peppermint, thyme, fennel, cummin, mar- 
joram, rosemary, lavender, calmus, and many others, 
were used for the preparation of these baths, which 
were administered to enervated persons, especially to 
weak children. 

Milk and whey cures play an important role at the 
Continental watering places, there being scarcely any 
spa which does not advertise " that excellent whey, 
prepared by a genuine Swiss from Appenzell, is at 
hand." 

Milk of cows, goats, ewes, asses, and mares is used as 
nutriment, and for the treatment of various diseases. 
Milk contains water, fat (butter), casein, sugar, and 
some salts, in the following proportion : — 





Cow. 


Goat. 


Ewe. 


Asses. 


Mares. 


Water .... 


85705 


86-358 


83-989 


91-029 


82-837 


Solid constituents 


I4-295 


13-642 


16-011 


8- 97 6 


17-163 


Casein .... 


4-828 


3-360 


5 '342 


2-018 


1*641 


Albumen . . . 


0-576 


I-2 99 


— 


— 


• — 


Butter .... 


4-305 


4'357 


5-890 


1-256 


6-872 


Milk-sugar . . 


4S07 


4-004 


4-098 


5-702 


8-650 


Salts .... 


0-549 


0-622 


o-68i 


— 


— 



The salts are chloride of potass, chloride of sodium, 
phospate of lime, and magnesia. 

The composition of milk varies with the species 
of the animal which yields it, the food upon which it 
is fed, and the region in which it is reared. Our 



MISCELLANEOUS CURES. 291 

table shows the mare's milk as containing the largest 
amount of mineral constituents ; it has the largest 
quantity of sugar and butter, but the smallest amount 
of casein. Asses' milk is the poorest in solid con- 
stituents and butter ; cows' and ewes' milk is the 
richest in casein. 

When milk is coagulated, the casein and butter are 
separated from the serum, which remains fluid, and 
contains salts and milk-sugar, and is called whey. 
Mares' milk brought to fermentation is called kumys, 
which is the favourite beverage of the Bashkirs and 
Kirghis, the nomads of the great Russian steppes. 

The milk we drink is coagulated by the gastric 
juice, but is soon again dissolved and digested. No 
other animal or vegetable nutriment is so rapidly, 
readily, and completely digested and absorbed, as 
milk. Nevertheless, there are many persons who do 
not well bear it, and feel a pressure in the epigastric 
region when commencing a milk cure. Milk favours 
the accumulation of fat ; it is therefore the practice 
of the little African potentates to force their wives to . 
drink daily several quarts of milk, in order to fatten 
them, the fattest being considered the most beautiful. 
Kumys has likewise a fattening tendency. 

It is reported that Hippocrates, the father of 
medical science, employed large quantities of milk 
as a remedial agent. In the treatment of consump- 
tion, ulceration of the stomach, &c, milk has always 
been considered an important auxiliary. Even whey 
was already employed by the ancient physicians. 

Milk treatment is very much recommended in all 
affections of the larynx and lungs, especially in all 

U 2 



292 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

stages of pulmonary consumption. Splendid results 
are often obtained by the exclusive use of a milk diet 
in chronic ulcerations of the stomach. Patients take 
the milk warm as drawn from the cow ; but there is 
no harm in boiling it, for those who prefer it so. 
From two to six ounces three or four times a day 
are sufficient in the beginning, the quantity being 
gradually increased. If patients tire of it, or do not 
well bear it, the quantity should be reduced. At first 
nothing is taken besides the milk but some white 
bread ; after a while more substantial food is 
allowed. 

Whey-cures are far more popular than milk-cures, 
though at present they are not so extensively applied 
as during the first half of the present century. Whey 
is prepared by adding a piece of a calf's stomach to 
boiling milk, whereby coagulation is procured. An 
analysis made by Dr. Valentiner shows the following 
composition of different kinds of whey. 

One thousand parts of whey contain : — 





Cow. 


Goat. 


Ewe. 


Water . 


932-6 


933'8 


919-6 


Albuminates 


io-8 


ii*4 


21-3 


Milk-sugar 


5i-3 


45*3 


507 


Fat. 


V2 


37 


2-5 


Salts 


4'i 


5-8 


5'9 



There is no great difference in the therapeutical 
action, whether a patient take cow, or goat, or ewe 
whey. It has been contended that goat whey has a 
special beneficial action on consumptive patients, and 
cow whey on those affected with diseases of the abdo- 
minal organs, while ewe whey was considered the 



MISCELLANEOUS CURES. 293 

most nourishing of the three ; but we have no proof 
of such an assertion. 

The friends of the whey treatment seem to base its 
therapeutical value upon the nourishing action of the 
whey ; but many practitioners think very little of it, 
and prefer pure milk as a far more efficacious and 
nourishing drink, though it cannot be denied that 
whey is often well borne and digested in cases where 
milk causes indigestion. 

Whey increases the secretions of the intestinal canal, 
the kidneys, and the skin, and promotes the change 
of tissue ; it also acts as a mild aperient. 

In cases of incipient phthisis, whey is highly recom- 
mended by many practitioners, particularly where 
there is an irritation of the bronchial tubes, its action 
being that of a mild anti-catarrhal remedy. In chronic 
catarrh of the larynx and the bronchial tubes, whey 
alleviates the troublesome cough and facilitates the 
expectoration. These are the cases which derive the 
most benefit from a whey-cure. The curative effects 
of whey are also much praised in hemorrhoids and 
retarded circulation in the abdominal organs, the 
so-called plethora abdominalis of the German phy- 
sicians. 

Whey should be taken with great caution by patients 
who are predisposed to congestions of the lungs and 
hemorrhage, or by those who suffer from catarrh of 
the stomach. It should not be applied in the 
advanced stages of consumption. 

The best time for a whey-cure is the summer. The 
temperature of this pleasant beverage is 105 or more ; 
the smallest quantity which is taken per day is half a 



294 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

quart, the largest about two quarts. Patients mus 
promenade while drinking, in order to promote its 
digestion. They should not take breakfast too soon 
after having swallowed the last portion of the pre- 
scribed quantity, and should strictly abstain from all 
indigestible food. 

Whey-cures are often combined with mineral water 
cures; alkaline waters in particular are very often 
mixed with warm whey, and their efficacy is said to 
be considerably promoted by this method. 

Kumys contains water, alcohol, carbonic acid, and 
that portion of the sugar which has not fermented. 
It is exceedingly nourishing, the nomads of the 
Russian steppes living almost solely on this nutri- 
ment during the whole summer. It is a pleasant, 
acidulous, cooling drink, quenching thirst and hunger, 
and can be taken in large quantities without disturb- 
ing the digestion. The effect of a kumys diet is an 
increase of appetite and weight ; weak and emaciated 
persons soon become strong and fat. 

Of late years kumys has obtained a very great 
reputation as a curative agent in consumption. The 
fact that this disease is unknown among the nomads 
of the steppes led to the supposition that kumys 
was the cause of that immunity ; but we would rather 
suggest that the fresh, pure air of the steppes is the 
real cause of that healthy state. Nevertheless, enough 
cases are reported by experienced practitioners to 
prove the efficacy of kumys in incipient consump- 
tion ; the hectic fever decreases during its admini- 
stration, the cough and expectoration are alle- 
viated and gradually cease, the weight increases, 



MISCELLANEOUS CURES. 295 

the emaciated body fattens, and night-sweats dis- 
appear. 

In order to enable patients to drink kumys without 
being obliged to travel to the steppes, and live like 
nomades, several establishments for the preparation 
of kumys have been erected in Germany, as for 
instance at Wiesbaden, Bremerhafen, &c. The diet 
during the kumys cure consists of mutton and bread. 

Grape cures are also much favoured by German 
physicians. Grapes are very rich in sugar and various 
salts, and on the absorption of these substances the 
efficacy of the grape cure depends. Their chemical 
composition varies considerably, according to the soil 
where they are cultivated, the manner of cultivation, 
and the greater or lesser heat of the particular season. 
In warm climates the grape juice contains more sugar 
than in cold ones ; hot seasons yield a sweeter wine 
than cold ones. 

The principal constituents of the grape-juice are 
tartrates of lime and potass, chloride of sodium, 
silicates, phosphates, albumen, mucose, sugar, and 
water. The proportion of the sugar is 2\ to 5 ounces 
in 16 ounces grape juice (Braun). 

Grape-juice increases the secretion of the saliva, 
augments the appetite, and stimulates the action of 
the bowels. A patient who has consumed a moderate 
quantity of grapes has a feeling of fulness in the epi- 
gastric region ; frequent eructation soon occurs, 
caused by carbonic acid which forms in the stomach. 
The pulse becomes fuller and accelerated, and the 
head dizzy ; palpitation of the heart is sometimes 
noticed ; and hemorrhage from the nose, and even 



296 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

from the lungs may be produced. Perspiration and 
secretion of urine increase, the secretion of the 
mucous membrane of the intestinal canal is greatly 
stimulated, and frequent fluid evacuations take place. 
These symptoms pass off as soon as the system is 
accustomed to the grape diet ; the appetite improves, 
the evacuations become regular and less watery, and 
the change of tissue is considerably promoted. 

Grapes seem to favour the accumulation of fat, and 
emaciated persons have often been observed to be- 
come fatter by the grape diet. But it is also con- 
tended that the fresh air and the increased appetite, 
which cause the patients to consume immense 
quantities of food during the grape cure, are more apt 
to produce that fattening effect than the grape juice. 

However, there are many practitioners who con- 
sider the grape juice a curative agent of great virtue 
in consumptive cases on account of its nourishing 
property. Sugar having always been considered a 
valuable remedy in phthisis, we should infer that 
grape juice, which is so rich in grape sugar, would 
also act very beneficially, and trustworthy physicians 
give good accounts of the results achieved by grape 
treatment in the early stages of the disease. 

Grape diet has proved an excellent remedy in en- 
largement of the liver ; it is also of great advantage 
in cases of congestions of the brain produced by ex- 
cessive mental labour or excitement. As mild 
aperients, grapes are often employed for habitual con- 
stipation and hemorrhoids. The grape treatment is 
also highly recommended for chronic catarrh of the 
respiratory and digestive organs. 



MISCELLANEOUS CURES. 297 

The time for grape cures is the fall, from the middle 
of September until the end of October. The grapes 
must be ripe, but patients should not swallow the 
skin ; nor should they go to the vineyards in the 
morning in order to eat the fresh grapes, as many are 
in the habit of doing, as there is always great danger 
of catching cold. They should eat one and a half or 
two pounds of grapes in the morning before breakfast, 
and one or two rolls. Two or three hours later another 
quantity of two or three pounds is taken, together with 
some white bread. About three or four hours after 
dinner, one and a half or two pounds are again con- 
sumed. Patients must avoid all indigestible food, 
especially pork, cheese, pies and cakes, salads, &c. ; 
milk should not be drunk before or shortly after 
taking the grapes. Frequent active exercise is ab- 
solutely necessary, though every fatigue should be 
avoided. If the grapes are not tolerated by an empty 
stomach, patients may take a cup of tea or coffee 
without milk a short time before taking the first 
portion of the grapes. Medicines or mineral waters 
should not be taken during the grape cure, or shortly 
afterward, and a proper dietetic regimen must be kept 
on for several weeks after the treatment has been 
finished. 

Fresh grape juice, squeezed out of the grapes, is 
used sometimes to avoid the trouble of masticating, 
but such practice is not commendable, as mastication 
is necessary for the secretion of saliva, which is con- 
sidered essential for a good digestion. 

The duration of a grape-treatment is usually from 
four to six weeks. There are some places which 



298 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

enjoy a great reputation as resorts for grape cures on 
account of the superior quality of the grapes ; we 
mention as the most popular : Diirkheim, in Rhenish 
Bavaria ; Meran, in the Tyrol ; Montr enx t on the lake 
of Geneva. 

Herb-juices (Krautersdfte) . — At several watering 
places the juices obtained by squeezing fresh aromatic 
herbs are applied as curative agents in dispeptic cases. 
Numerous herbs are used for that purpose, especially 
those growing on Alpine heights, a specific curative 
power being attributed to these juices by popular 
belief — or rather, credulity. Such " mountain-bitters " 
are sold in nearly all mountain regions of Central 
Europe, and some places are known as specific 
Krautersaft-stations\ as, for instance, Hall (near 
Steyer), Le Prese, Rheinfelden (Switzerland), and 
Goslar (Germany), where the celebrated shoemaker, 
Lampe, once performed miracles by his decoctions. 
The bitters of Reichenhall and Kreuth have acquired 
a great popularity among the visitors of these 
regions. 

All such preparations have no special curative effect; 
but as many patients believe in them, and no harm 
can ensue from their use, they may take them to their 
heart's content : haluant sibi ! 

We deem it proper to mention, for the benefit of 
those who are fond of cold water treatment, the name 
and location of some hydropathic institutes. There 
is a very large number of such establishments in 
Central Europe, hydropathic treatment being still 
very popular. But the old rigid method of the 



MISCELLANEOUS CURES. 299 

genial peasant Priessnitz is nowadays practised only 
in a few establishments, as a more rational method 
has been adopted, and most of the institutes are under 
the management of regular physicians. 

Cold water treatment is of decided benefit in hypo- 
chondriasis, hysteria, general derangement of the ner- 
vous system, and in atony of the skin, which is the 
chief cause of the liability to catch cold. It has also 
been found useful in cases of paralysis, syphilis, 
anaemia, and in affections of the digestive organs. 

The hydropathic institutes are generally situated in 
pleasant, romantic regions ; such a location, a well 
regulated dietetic regimen, and social intercourse with 
the better class of society, which usually congregates 
at these resorts, contribute a great deal to the splendid 
results which are undoubtedly achieved by the cold 
water treatment. 

We shall enumerate several establishments, which 
are easily accessible to English and Americans 
travelling on the Continent. 

For the benefit of those sojourning near the Rhine 
or in Switzerland the following places may be men- 
tioned : — 

DlETENMUHLE, near Wiesbaden. 

Nerothal, near Wiesbaden. 

GODESBERG, on the Rhine. 

Marienberg, near Boppard. 

MUHLBAD, near Boppard. 

Brestenberg, Canton Aargau, "\ 

ALBISBRUNN, Canton Zurich, / Switzer- 

SCHONBRUNN, near Zug, C land. 

SCHONEGG, on the Lake of Lucerne, J 



300 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

Patients residing in Dresden or Berlin. may resort 
to— 

SCHWEIZERMUHLE near Pirna, 

KONIGSBRUNN, near Konigstein, 
in Saxony, both places being picturesquely situated 
and well managed ; prices reasonable. 

Of the Austrian establishments we mention — 

GRAEFENBERG, in Austrian Silesia, the mother- 
establishment, where Priessnitz started the cold water 
treatment. 

Kaltenleutgeben, near Vienna. 

PRIESSNITZTHAL, near Vienna. 

EGGENBERG, near Gratz (Styria). 

OBERINAIS, near Meran (Tyrol). 



THERAPEUTICAL RECAPITULATION. 301 



CHAPTER III. 

THERAPEUTICAL RECAPITULATION. 

A BRIEF review of the different diseases mentioned in 
connexion with the therapeutical application of the 
various springs will, I believe, enable the reader to 
form a more correct opinion of their relative efficacy 
in each particular case ; for a considerable number 
of mineral waters have been enumerated as equally 
efficient in the same disease, and the puzzled reader 
may desire to have a clearer idea in this respect. The 
best means to attain this end, will be a brief recapitu- 
lation, in which shall be indicated the various diseases 
treated at the springs, and the especial advantages 
of the various resorts with reference to particular 
diseases. 

1. Diseases of the Digestive Organs. 

There is nothing in the world which is more 
frequently sinned against than the observation of a 
rational dietetic regimen. As a consequence the 
diseases of the digestive organs are far more frequent 
than those of the other organs, and patients seeking 
to restore the impaired energy of the former, throng 
the watering places by thousands. However, the 



302 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

misfortune of this class of patients is a very great one 
indeed ; because scarcely are they restored to health, 
or at least improved, when, unable to withstand the 
temptations of a greedy stomach, they relapse into 
their former habits, and the complaint soon returns. 
This is the reason why, year after year, so considerable 
a number of the same individuals are seen at the same 
spas, who are obliged to visit them again and again 
as long as they live. There are many patients who 
for twenty and thirty years every spring faithfully 
start on their yearly pilgrimage to Karlsbad and 
similar spas. 

Dyspepsia, and catarrh of the stomach. — Dyspepsia 
mostly depends upon a catarrh of the stomach, but 
the former term is generally applied to a mild form, 
while the latter indicates a more inveterated or 
chronic condition. The catarrh is often associated 
with vomiting of a sour, slimy, substance, and emacia- 
tion. Alkaline and salt springs are indicated for the 
cure of these affections. If atony of the stomach 
exists, the salt springs of Kissingen, Homburg, &c, 
are suitable ; by stimulating the peristaltic action of 
the stomach, they promote the evacuation of its con- 
tents ; the application of the saline baths is a valuable 
auxiliary to the internal use of the salt springs. 
Where there is an excess of acidity, the alkaline waters, 
especially the alkaline-muriated springs of Ems and 
Gleichenberg, are of great advantage. In severe 
cases of chronic catarrh, which are generally compli- 
cated with constipation, the alkaline-saline (Glauber- 
salt) waters are the best remedies, as they gently 
promote the peristaltic action of the bowels. The 






THERAPEUTICAL RECAPITULATION. 303 

saline waters (Kissingen, &c.) do not produce this 
purgative action, except by excessive doses, which 
easily cause irritation of the stomach and an increase 
of the catarrh. When great irritation and neuralgic 
pains are present, the warm Glaubersalt springs of 
Karlsbad should be resorted to, the cold Glaubersalt 
waters (Marienbad, Tarasp,&c.) being highly beneficial 
when great atony of the digestive organs complicates 
the case. If enlargement of the liver is combined 
with the catarrh, the Glaubersalt waters are the best 
remedies. Weak and anaemic patients use the chaly- 
beate-saline waters of Franzensbad and Elster with 
great profit, or the combined salt and iron waters of 
Homburg. 

Chronic ulcers of the stomach are effectually treated 
by the Karlsbad springs. 

Chronic catarrh of the intestinal canal, of which 
diarrhoea alternating with costiveness is the principal 
symptom, is cured by the warm alkaline, the saline, 
and the earthy waters. Severe cases, particularly 
when combined with plethora and obesity, are most 
benefited by Karlsbad. 

Hemorrhoids and constipation are successfully treated 
at Kissingen, Karlsbad, Marienbad, Tarasp, &c. The 
saline waters of Kissingen, Homburg, &c. are indi- 
cated when the general assimilation and nutrition are 
much impaired, and also when there is much nervous 
irritation ; Karlsbad, Marienbad, Tarasp, render ex- 
cellent service to persons of great obesity, and pre- 
disposed to congestions of the internal organs. 

Enlarged liver and fatty liver are cured by both 
the saline (Kissingen, Homburg, &c.) and the 



304 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

Glaubersalt waters (Karlsbad, Marienbad, Tarasp), 
the latter being far more effective. The saline 
waters are preferred in cases of impaired nutrition; 
the Glaubersalt springs are unsurpassed when con- 
siderable enlargement is combined with obesity, 
costiveness, and a disposition to congestions. 

Gall stones are cured by the thermal springs of 
Karlsbad, which increase the secretion of the bile, 
facilitate the passage and evacuation of the stones, and 
prevent the formation of new concretions — probably 
by augmenting the quantity of the soda of the bile. 
Tarasp is also highly recommended. 

Jaundice and catarrh of the gall-ducts are also 
cured by the alkaline-saline waters of Karlsbad, 
Marienbad, &c. 

Enlargement of the spleen after intermittent fever 
is successfully treated by saline or Glaubersalt waters. 
When the nutrition is much impaired and dropsy has 
set in, the chalybeate-saline waters of Elster or 
Franzensbad are indicated ; peat baths are also a 
valuable auxiliary. The treatment should be con- 
cluded by the use of the strong iron waters of 
Pyrmont, Driburg, Scbwalbach, &c. 

2. Diseases of the Respiratory Organs. 

Chronic catarrh of the throat and larynx are 
benefited by the alkaline waters of Salzbrunn and 
Neuenahr, or by the alkaline muriated waters of Ems 
and Gleichenberg ; and if there is a scrofulous com- 
plication, by the saline waters. 

Chronic bronchial catarrh and incipient phthisis. — 



THERAPEUTICAL RECAPITULATION. 305 

Salzbrunn, Ems, Gleichenberg, and Neuenahr afford 
great benefit for the mild forms of the catarrh and 
the early stages of consumption. When these affec- 
tions are combined with dyspepsia and sluggishness 
of the bowels, the saline waters (especially Soden), 
which improve the nutrition, are recommended. In- 
halations of atomized saline waters aid considerably. 
Catarrhs which are complicated with hemorrhoids 
and enlarged liver, derive great benefit from the use 
of the sulphur waters (Weilbach). Very weak patients 
of this kind may resort to Reinez, Cudowa, Elster, or 
Franzensbad. 

The troublesome dry catarrh, which is often com- 
bined with asthma, is very much benefited by a 
summer sojourn in an Alpine region (Reichenhall, 
Kreuth, &c), and the use of whey mixed with an 
alkaline muriated water, or by resorting to a southern 
climatic station for the winter season, the treatment 
being much aided by the inhalation of compressed 
air and atomized medicines. 

Grape cures are also of great advantage in bronchial 
catarrh ; they are recommended as so-called " after- 
cures," as accessories to the treatment by mineral 
waters. 

3. Diseases of the Urinary System. 

Chronic catarrh of the bladder. — Carbonate of soda 
being the most effectual remedy for catarrhs, it is 
obvious that alkaline waters, which are rich in it, will 
be used with great benefit in catarrh of the bladder, 
and great results are indeed obtained at Neuenahr, 

x 



306 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

Salzbrunn, and the other alkaline spas, if no other 
serious complications aggravate the case. Inveterate 
cases, with great atony of the bladder and impaired 
nutrition, are most successfully treated by the earthy 
waters of Wildungen. If the catarrh is associated 
with costiveness or retarded circulation in the abdo- 
minal organs, the waters of Karlsbad should be used. 

Gravel is treated by the alkaline waters of Ems, 
Neuenahr, or Karlsbad, if a great irritation of the 
urinary system prevails. If this complication is not 
present, the Wildungen springs will be of great 
benefit. During the employment of these waters 
immense quantities of stones are frequently elimi- 
nated without pain. 

Bright s disease of ihe kidneys. — The advanced stages 
of this disease, which are generally accompanied by a 
high degree of dropsy, are no suitable cases for treat- 
ment at any watering place. But if the case is very 
chronic, and dropsy not far advanced, the Karlsbad or 
Wildungen waters may afford great relief. Patients 
who are very weak and anaemic will be benefited by 
iron waters. 

4. Diseases of the Uterine System. 

Chronic uterine catarrh, with profuse secretion, is 
successfully treated by the alkaline muriated or 
saline waters, the brine baths (Soolbader) being par- 
ticularly useful, especially for patients of a scrofulous 
constitution. Complications with enlarged liver or a 
plethoric constitution require a treatment by Glauber- 
salt waters, while anaemic patients derive most 



THERAPEUTICAL RECAPITULATION. 307 

benefit from the internal and external application 
of the iron waters. The ascending douche is a very 
powerful remedy in all cases of uterine catarrh. For 

Chronic inflammation of the uterus, when combined 
with great local irritability and general nervous 
excitability, the waters of Schlangenbad and Lan- 
deck are highly praised. If the case is complicated 
with constipation, the Glaubersalt and saline springs 
should be used, as they relieve the sexual organs by 
producing fluid evacuations. Brine and peat baths, 
which reduce engorgement of the uterus, are eminently 
beneficial. Anaemic patients of this class should resort 
to the iron springs, take iron or peat baths, and drink 
iron water. The chalybeate waters of Elster and 
Franzensbad enjoy a special reputation for efficacy 
in such cases. 

Irregularities of the menstruation, especially ame- 
norrhcea and dysmenorrhea, often derive great 
benefit from the indifferent thermal waters (Schlan- 
genbad), provided that these complaints be not 
caused by local affections requiring surgical aid. Iron 
baths are also frequently applied with great success. 

Sterility is frequently caused by catarrh of the 
uterus, anaemia, and excessive nervous irritability. 
The great reputation of some spas, as, for instance, 
Ems, and of some iron springs, for a special efficacy 
in cases of sterility, chiefly depends on the beneficial 
results obtained there in complaints like the above- 
named, by the cure of which the cause of sterility is 
sometimes removed. But when, as is frequently the 
case, a local obstruction is the cause of the disability, 
a surgical treatment should be resorted to. 

X 2 



308 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 



5. Diseases of the Skin. 

Some balneologists, especially Braun, who in this 
this point coincides with Hebra, one of the greatest 
living authorities on dermatology, deny that any 
benefit can be derived from mineral waters in the 
treatment of chronic eruptions of the skin. They 
denounce the saline baths, which for a long time 
were considered one of the most efficacious remedies 
for these evils, as injurious ; and the sulphur baths, 
once praised as the panaceas for all kinds of eruptions, 
as useless, and not more efficacious than common 
water baths. Other competent practitioners, par- 
ticularly the attending physicians at the sulphur and 
saline springs, claim with great emphasis decided 
successes obtained by their respective waters. 

Chronic eczema, the most frequent of the skin 
diseases, is contended to be greatly benefited by the 
use of the sulphur waters of Aachen, Neundorf, &c. 
Saline baths, though vigorously rejected by some as 
producing too great an irritation of the skin, are 
praised by other experienced balneologists (Beneke) 
as very efficacious, especially those at Nauheim and 
Kreuznach. For the cure of impetigo, sulphur baths 
are likewise highly recommended (Aachen, Baden, 
Neundorf, Eilsen). ¥ ox psoriasis, Leuk has a prefer- 
ence, on account of the long-continued immersions. 

The indifferent thermal springs (particularly Schlan- 
genbad) are much patronized by patients suffering 
from a great irritability of the skin, urticaria (nettle- 
rash), prurigo, &c. 

These waters are also employed with the greatest 



THERAPEUTICAL RECAPITULATION. 309 

advantages for gunshot wounds, ulcerations of long 
standing, either of the skin or the bones, anchylosis, &c. 
Gastein, Ragatz, Wildbad, and especially Teplitz, have 
been visited by numerous wounded soldiers, after each 
of the frequent wars, which during the last twenty 
years have disturbed the peace of Europe. 

6. Diseases of the Nervous System. 

HypocJwndriasis is one of the most frequent com- 
plaints treated at the various spas. The regularity 
in the manner of living, the constant active exercise, 
and the manifold enjoyments offered at the majority 
of the spas, exert the most salutary influence upon 
the mind of hypochondriacs. The local disease which 
generally is the cause of hypochondriasis, though often 
of very little importance, is in most cases seated in 
one of the abdominal organs, and is greatly improved 
by the use of the proper mineral spring. Sluggish- 
ness of the bowels, and a retarded circulation in the 
abdominal organs being the most frequent symptoms, 
the cold saline springs are of the greatest benefit to 
patients of this kind, who cheerfully keep account of 
the daily evacuations produced by the^ mineral waters. 

If the liver is enlarged and obstinate constipation 
aggravates the case, the alkaline saline waters (Mari- 
enbad, Karlsbad, Tarasp, &c), are preferable. 

Hydropathic treatment is also an unsurpassed 
remedy for many cases of hypochrondriasis. 

Hysteria. — The majority of hysterical patients being 
anaemic persons with an impaired nutrition, the in- 
ternal and external application of the iron waters 



3IO WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

proves highly advantageous. If the anaemia is of 
little account, but a high degree of nervous irrita- 
bility prevails, the cool, indifferent thermal springs 
(Schlangenbad, Johannisbad, &c), are the proper 
spas ; cases of hysterical paralysis will derive great 
benefit from the warmer springs of Teplitz, Gastein, 
&c, or from iron, peat, or saline baths. Favourable 
results are also sometimes obtained by cautious hydro- 
pathic treatment or sea-baths. 

Spinal irritation will be benefited by the indifferent 
thermal springs, iron and sea baths, or by a mild 
hydropathic treatment. 

Neuralgia. — A general rule for the treatment of, 
neuralgia by mineral waters cannot be established, 
as the selection of a suitable spring chiefly depends 
on the cause of the disease. Anaemia very frequently 
produces neuralgia, especially of the head ; cases of 
this kind are greatly relieved by the use of iron waters. 
Sciatica, if caused by congestions of the abdominal 
organs, should be treated by saline or alkaline saline 
waters. Inveterate cases of this obstinate neuralgia 
are often successfully treated at Teplitz, Wiesbaden, 
or Aachen. Mountain air has also a very beneficial 
effect on neuralgic patients. 

Paralysis. — Paralysis of the peripheric nerves (i. e., 
cases where the central organs are not affected) are 
often caused by rheumatism or by traumatic lesions, 
or by pressure on the nerves — as, for instance, paralysis 
in consequence of severe confinements. In such cases 
splendid results are obtained by the thermal waters of 
Aachen, Gastein, Teplitz, Ragatz, Wiesbaden, and 
Wildbad. Peat and mud baths are also very eftica- 



THERAPEUTICAL RECAPITULATION. 31 1 

cious. In paralysis resulting from inflammation of the 
brain or spinal cord, if the case is not of too long stand- 
ing, the warmer indifferent springs, the sulphur spas, 
the saline waters of Wiesbaden, and peat baths, are 
recommended. In inveterate, torpid cases, the waters 
of Kissingen, Nauheim, and Rehme are very useful. 

If paralysis is caused by apoplexy, a treatment by 
mineral waters should not be entered upon unless 
several months have elapsed after the attack has 
taken place. The cool indifferent thermal waters 
should be tried at first ; if no favourable results are 
obtained, the hot indifferent springs, the sulphur or 
saline baths, should be applied, though with great 
caution. 

Paralysis caused by metallic poisoning derives most 
benefit from the hot sulphur or indifferent thermal 
springs. Syphilis is often a cause of paralysis, and 
the sulphur waters of Aachen have the reputation of 
being a specific remedy for such cases. 

7. Constitutional Diseases. 

Scrofula, briefly speaking, is an impure condition 
of the blood, which renders its victims very prone to 
disease, especially to consumption, and an easy prey 
to other acute or chronic diseases. A large part of the 
human race are more or less tainted with it. Scrofula 
is chiefly met with in two forms ; the one called 
the torpid form is characterized by swelling of the 
lymphatic glands, particularly those of the neck ; the 
other is called the erethic form. Patients of the latter 
class are slender and delicate, and have a tender skin 



312 WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

with transparent veins, and a great irritability of the 
nervous system. Each form is differently treated, the 
first form being chiefly benefited by the internal use 
of the saline springs, the alkaline saline waters, or the 
Thassilo spring of Hall (Austria), and the Adelheid 
spring of Heilbronn (Wiirtemberg), both containing 
iodine and bromine. With this internal treatment the 
external application of the saline waters in the shape 
of strong brine baths (at Kreuznach, Rehme, Ischl, 
&c.) should be combined. A sojourn in a high 
Alpine region also proves highly beneficial. 

Scrofulous patients of the second class, i. e. of the 
erethic form, should try to effect a regeneration of the 
whole system by country and sea air, warm sea-baths, 
mild saline baths, proper diet, and a sojourn during 
the winter at a southern climatic station. 

Scrofulous persons who are affected with eruptions 
on the skin, will derive considerable advantage from 
the use of the sulphur waters and saline baths. 

Rachitis requires a similar treatment. A stay at a 
sea-side resort and saline baths are highly recom- 
mended. 

Gout. — The internal employment of the alkaline 
and alkaline saline waters affords the principal cura- 
tive agent for the treatment of gout. Neuenahr, 
Bertrich, Ems, and especially Karlsbad, are very 
efficacious. The cold Glaubersalt springs of Marien- 
bad, Tarasp, &c, also act beneficially, particularly if 
sluggishness of the bowels, or enlarged and fatty liver, 
complicate the case. Weak patients will derive benefit 
from the saline springs of Wiesbaden, Kissingen, &c. 
If the urinary system is affected, as is often the case 



THERAPEUTICAL RECAPITULATION. 313 

in the later stages of gout, the earthy waters of Wil- 
dungen or Leuk are preferred. 

All these waters prevent the accumulation of lithic 
acid in the blood, and promote the elimination of the 
latter by means of the kidneys, the skin, and the 
alimentary canal. But a proper dietetic regimen is 
absolutely necessary for the success of the treatment, 
no matter which spring may be resorted to. Gouty 
patients should abstain from strong coffee and tea, 
strong wines and beer, nor should they eat much 
meat ; they should rather confine themselves to a 
vegetable diet, and indulge in drinking large quanti- 
ties of water. 

The external application of mineral waters is of the 
highest importance, recent exudations in the joints 
being removed by the energetic use of thermal baths. 
Old ones will not be resolved. 

The most popular spas for gouty patients are, 
Gastein, Teplitz, Wildbad, Ragatz, Warmbrunn. In 
cases of long duration, where a great nervous excit- 
ability prevails, the cooler indifferent thermal waters, 
especially those of Schlangenbad, are very useful. 
The saline baths of Wiesbaden, and the earthy waters 
of Leuk are likewise very efficacious ; sulphur baths 
are also highly recommended. Gouty exudations 
and stiffened joints often improve considerably by the 
application of mud and peat baths. 

Rheumatism. — The thermal springs of Teplitz, Gas- 
tein, Ragatz, and Warmbrunn have for hundreds of 
years enjoyed a well-deserved popularity in the cure 
of rheumatism. The saline waters of Wiesbaden and 
Baden-Baden, the stronger brine baths of Ischl, Reich- 



3 H WATERING PLACES AND MINERAL SPRINGS. 

enhall, &c, and the thermal saline waters of Nauheim 
and Rehme, are likewise of great value in removing 
rheumatic exudations. Chronic rheumatism of the 
joints is very successfully treated by sulphur, mud, 
and vapour baths, as practised at Aachen, Burtscheid, 
and other sulphur spas. The method of protracted 
baths at Leuk is also of considerable advantage in 
thickening of the joints. Peat baths are highly 
praised for weak and irritable patients. 

Diabetes is treated at Karlsbad, Neuenahr, and 
Tarasp, the first of these spas being the most fre- 
quented by diabetic patients. The dietetic regimen, 
which has been sufficiently explained in the third part 
of this treatise, is of the utmost importance, and a 
patient who is not willing to submit to it, should never 
hope to recover. 

Metallic poisoning from mercury or lead is benefited 
by warm mineral baths of whatever kind ; but the 
sulphur springs are the most popular, and patients 
consider them more powerful than all others. 

Syphilis. — Sulphur springs are extensively used in 
the treatment of this disease, and they are un- 
doubtedly excellent adjuncts to the anti-syphilitic 
treatment by mercury or iodine. Other thermal 
waters may produce the same effect, but the sulphur 
spas have the advantage of an excellent method of 
treatment, as applied at Aachen and other sulphur 
springs. 

Dr. Beumont (Aachen) claims a particular efficacy 
of the sulphur waters : — 

(i) For patients having already passed through an 
anti-syphilitic course, if there still is some suspicion 



i 



THERAPEUTICAL RECAPITULATION. 31 5 

of a latent syphilitic poison. In such cases the treat- 
ment by sulphur waters is considered a test for the 
presence of the disease. 

(2) For patients when there is a doubt, whether the 
symptoms they present are caused by mercury or 
syphilis, or by any other dyscrasy. 

(3) For syphilitic patients suffering from mer- 
curialism or rheumatism. In such cases the sulphur 
baths are taken as a preparatory course of treatment. 

(4) For patients who are under anti-syphilitic 
treatment. In these cases the sulphur waters mate- 
rially aid the operation of the specific anti-syphilitic 
remedies. 

Ancemia, caused by hemorrhage and other exhaus- 
tive affections, is easily cured by the use of iron 
waters. 

Chlorosis is also successfully treated by iron waters, 
and a sojourn at one of the Alpine resorts. 

" The book is completed, 
And closed, like the day ; 
And the hand that has written it 
Lays it away." — Longfellow. 



APPENDIX. 



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APPENDIX. 





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APPENDIX. 



Table III. 

SULPHUR WATERS. 
I. Warm Sulphur Waters. 



— 


Aachen 

(Aix la 

Chapelle). 

Kaiser- 
quelle. 


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Victoria- 
brunnen. 


Landeck. 

Wiesen- 
quelle. 


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Ut sprung. 


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land). 


Chloride of sodium 
Carbonate of soda. 
Sulphate of soda .. 
Sulphate of potass. 

Solids 


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0*1527 


2-7913 
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0-2817 
0-1665 


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0-0822 


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OI273 


4-0791 
132 


4-1245 
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2-I687 

94° 


3-9700 

116 


Temperature 



2. Cold Sulphur Waters. 



— 


Nenndorf. 
Trinkquelle. 


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Julianen- 
quelle. 


Weilbach. 

Schwefel- 
quelie 


Meinberg. 

Schwefel- 
quelle. 


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0*042 
0-419 
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Mini 


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0-2874 

0-0388 

0-1816 


0-0833 

0-2356 
0-0007 
0-2960 
08337 


Carbonate of soda 


Sulphate of soda 




Carbonate of lime 


Sulphate of lime 

Total contents 


2-636 

53° 
42-31 

173-03 
20-30 


2-7122 

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40-41 
67-22 
11*69 


1-0637 

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508 

26201 


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141 




Sulphuretted hydrogen ... 
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Nitrogen 





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325 



Table VI. 

INDIFFERENT THERMAL WATERS. 



Gastein 

Johannisbad . . 

Neuhaus 

Ragatz-Pfaffers 

Romerbad 

Schlangenbad . 

Teplitz 

Tobelbad 

Tiiffer 

Warmbrunn . . 

Wildbad 

Villach 



Elevation. 


the thermal water. 


Feet. 


Beg. Fahr. 


34OO 


96—II8 


194O 


86 


I200 


95 


1566—2050 


94—99 


731 


97 — 102 


925 


82—92 


715 


86—118 


IO72 


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H98 


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I300 


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1500 


84 



326 



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INDEX OF WATERING PLACES 
AND HEALTH RESORTS. 



Aachen (Aix-la-Chapelle), 75, 224. 

Adelheidsquelle, 312. 

Ajaccio, 269. 

Albisbrunn, 299. 

Alveneu, 167, 224. 

Arco, 276. 

Aussee, 151, 214, 282. 

Baden-Baden, 102, 202, 210. 
Baden (Austria), 146, 226. 
Baden (Switzerland), 162, 226. 
Bertrich, 79, 197. 
Booklet, 99, 235. 
Borkum, 285. 
Bormio, 169, 243. 
Botzen, 276. 
Brestenberg, 299. 
Briickenau, 100, 235. 
Burtscheid, 225* 

Cairo, 268. 

Cannstadt, no, 202, 210. 
Catania, 269. 
Cudowa, 117, 235. 

Davos, 281. 
Dietenmiihle, 299. 
Driburg, 74, 236. 
Diirkheim, 298. 



Eilsen, 68, 223. 
ELster, 144, 196, 236. 
Ems, 88, 182. 
Eggenberg, 300. 

Franzensbad, 142, 236, 304. 

Gastein, 152, 251. 
Geisshiibel, 182. 
Gleichenberg, 155, 183. 
Gorbersdorf, 278. 
Godesberg, 299. 
Grafenberg, 300. 
Gries, 276. 

Hall, 148, 212, 298, 312. 
Heligoland, 285. 
Homburg, 93, 202, 237. 
Hyeres, 270. 

Innichen, 161. 
Inselbad, 74, 242. 
Ischl, 149, 213. 

johannisbad, i45, 25i. 

Kaltenleutgeben, 300. 
Karlsbad, 121, 184. 
Kissengen, 97, 202, 214. 



328 



INDEX OF WATERING PLACES, ETC. 



Konigsbrunn, 300. 
Kreuth, 113, 213, 298. 
Kreuznach, 79, 211. 

Landeck, 116, 225. 
Leuk, 171, 243. 
Le Prese, 168, 224, 298. 
Lippspringe, 73, 241. 

Madeira, 267. 
Marienbad, 139, 195. 
Marienberg, 299. 
Meinberg, 72, 223. 
Mentone, 272. 
Meran, 275, 298. 
Montreux, 276. 
Miihlbad, 299. 
Miinster-am-Stein, 82, 212. 

Nauheim, 96, 216. 
Naples, 274. 
Neundorf, 222. 
Nerothal, 299. 
Neuenahr, 78, 182. 
Nice, 271. 
Nordemey, 285. 

Obermais, 300. 
Ostend, 284. 

Palermo, 268. 
Priessnitzthal, 300. 
Pyrmont, 70, 215, 237. 

Ragatz-Pfaffers, 164, 252. 



Rehme-Oeynhausen, 215. 
Reichenhall, ill, 213. 
Reinerz, 117, 238. 
Romerbad, 159, 252. 
Rohitsch, 157, 196. 
Rome, 274. 

Salzbrunn (Obersalzbrunn), 114, 

182. 
Scheveningen, 284. 
Schlangenbad, 87, 250. 
Schwalbach (Langenschwalbach), 

85, 238. 
Schonbrunn, 299. 
Schonegg, 299. 
Schweizermiihle, 300. 
Soden, 92, 217. 
St. Moritz, 167, 237. 
San Remo, 273. 
Sylt, 284. 

Tarasp, 170, 195. 
Teplitz, 135, 251. 
Tobelbad, 156, 251. 
Tiiffer, 158, 252. 

Venice, 274. 
Vevey, 276. 
Villach, 160, 251. 
Voslau, 148. 

Warmbrunn, 115, 252. 
Weilbach, 91, 223. 
Wiesbaden, 82, 210. 
Wildbad, 108, 252. 
Wildungen, 101, 242. 



GENERAL INDEX. 



Absorption, 59. 
Aftercure, 49. 
After-effects, 50. 
Air, change of, 253. 

, city, 60. 

, country, 61. 

, mountain, 62. 

, sea, 63. 

Anaemia, 230, 299, 315. 
Atony of the skin, 209, 216. 

Badfriesel, 38. 
Bath-course, duration of, 40. 

life, 23. 

physicians, 13. 

, selection of, 7. 

Bathing, time for, 34. 

Baths, number of common, 21. 

, herb, 290. 

, indifferent, 57, 245. 

, iron, 227. 

, mud, 288. 

, peat, 287. 

, pine-needle, 289. 

, sand, 288. 

, saline, 198. 

Bazaars, 20. 
Bitters, 298. 
Brines, 207. 
Bladder, catarrh of the, 241, 305. 



Bright's disease, 306. 
Brunnenfieber, 40. 

Carbonic acid, 58, 198, 217, 231. 
Catarrh, bronchial, 177, 196, 202, 

305. 

, intestinal, 303. 

, larynx, 293, 304. 

, stomach, 178, 1 89, 196, 

302. 
Chlorosis, 315. 
Clothing, 26. 
Coffee-gardens, 26. 
Coin, 11. 
Company, 33. 

Constipation, 190, 201, 304. 
Consumption, 183, 253, 266, 292, 

294. 
Course, preparatory, 49. 

Dancing, 32. 
Diabetes, 180, 191, 314. 
Diet, 42, 265. 
Drinking, time for, 24. 
Dyspepsia, 178, 189, 302. 

Exercise, active, 25, 29. 
, mental, 31. 

Fruit, 46. 



330 



GENERAL INDEX. 



Gallstones, 181, 190, 304. 

Germs, 61. 

Glaubersalt, 179. 

Gout, 181, 191, 209, 243, 312. 

Grape-cure, 295. 

Gravel, 181, 191, 241, 306. 

Hemorrhoids, 303. 

Heights, Alpine, 256. 

Herb juices, 298. 

Hotels, 117, 118. 

Hydrogen, sulphuretted, 219, 223. 

Hypochondriasis, 309. 

Hysteria, 309. 

Hydropathy, 298. 

Iron, internal use of, 229. 

, external use of, 233. 

Irritation, spinal, 310. 

Jaundice, 304. 

Kurt axe, 21. 
Kumys, 294. 

Lime, 239. 

Liver, enlargement of the, 190, 196, 

303- 
Lodgings, 13. 

Milk-cure, 29a 
Morality, 20. 
Mutterlauge, 208. 

Nerve-baths, 247. 
Neuralgia, 250, 310. 

Obesity, 191, 195, 196, 303, 304. 

Paralysis, 215, 222, 225, 310. 
Passport, 12. 

Poisoning, metallic, 223, 225, 226, 
244, 314. 



Promenading, 25. 

Rachitis, 240, 312. 
Regions, elevated, 277. 
Resorts, climatic, 253. 

, southern, 267. 

, seaside, 283. 

Review, topographical, 64. 
Rheumatism, 209, 216, 243, 251, 

313- 

Routes to the Continent, 9. 

Salt, common, 198. 

Sanitarium, 278. 

Sciatica, 288, 310. 

Scrofula, 201, 204, 208, 31 1. 

Sea-baths, 283. 

Skin diseases, 225, 243, 308. 

Sleep, 29. 

Society, 16. 

Soda, 177. 

Sommerfrischen, 282. 

Spleen, enlargement, 190, 304. 

Sterility, 183, 307. 

Stomach ulcerations, 178, 189, 303. 

Sulphur, 218. 

Syphilis, 314. 

Tables-d'hote, 27. 

Theatre, 32. 

Travelling, after the bath-cure, 51. 

, benefit of, 2. 

, time for, 7. 

Uterus, catarrh, 306. 

, inflammation, 307. 

, tumours, 209. 

Water, cold, 55. 

, warm, 55. 

, external use, 56. 

, internal use, 53. 



GENERAL INDEX. 



331 



Water, mineral, 55. 
Waters, alkaline, 176. 

, alkaline muriated, 182. 

, alkaline saline, 184. 

, bottled, 4. 

, classification of, 175. 

, earthy, 239. 

, indifferent thermal, 245. 

, iron, 227. 

, saline, 198. 

, sulphur, 218. 



Watering places,- 
marks, 64. 



■introductory re- 

of Germany, 67. 

— Austria, 119. 

— Switzerland, 162 
, general features of, 



5- 



Whey, 292. 

Wildbader, 245. 

Wounds, gunshot, 249, 309. 



THE END. 



GILBERT AND RIVINGTON, PRINTERS, ST. JOHN'S SQUARE, LONDON. 



